WASHINGTON (Pakistan Point News / Sputnik - 07th February, 2019) Regional efforts to restore democracy and resolve the crisis in Venezuela figured prominently in a bilateral meeting between US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo and Brazilian Foreign Minister Ernesto Araujo on Wednesday, the Department of State said in a readout.
"[The two officials] discussed efforts to restore democracy in Venezuela and Brazil's key role in regional efforts to address the crisis," the readout said.
The two officials also discussed areas for increased bilateral cooperation, including promoting economic prosperity, security, democracy, and human rights, the readout added.
The crisis in Venezuela intensified as opposition leader Guaido proclaimed himself to be interim president of Venezuela on January 23 after the opposition-controlled National Assembly proclaimed President Nicolas Maduro had usurped power.
Maduro has called Guiado a puppet of the United States and accused Washington of attempting to conduct a coup d'etat in Venezuela.
US officials have said all options regarding Venezuela are on the table.
Russia, China, Mexico and other countries have said they consider Maduro to be the legitimate president of Venezuela.
