Venezuelan opposition politician Leopoldo López believes German assistance is crucial for the country’s transition to democracy. Speaking to Focus from his exile in Spain, the leader of the largest opposition party, Voluntad General, noted that the Federal Republic has experienced “historical traumas”. Because of its own history, he argued, Germany is uniquely positioned to advise on how to manage the scars left by political persecution, expropriation, and societal division, as well as the processes of reconciliation and memory preservation. Furthermore, López pointed out that German businesses have significant opportunities, particularly in the energy sector, to contribute to the nation’s economic recovery.
The former prisoner under the Maduro regime hopes to return home this year. He stressed that “Venezuela must become a successful model, otherwise, the belief that the transition from dictatorship to democracy is possible will be damaged globally”. Ideally, he believes Europe should share this perspective. Although it may currently contradict US policy, López maintained that it is “inevitable, in the medium to long term, that Washington will push for democratic change in Venezuela. It is the only path to success”.
