Chile, Venezuela restore consular relations

Chile said Thursday that it had officially restored consular relations with Venezuela after a two-year suspension.

Foreign Minister Francisco Perez Mackenna said resuming the ties would "ensure protection and services for citizens of both countries."

He welcomed "the start of a new stage, through constructive dialogue" to advance issues of common interest for the well-being of both peoples and the region.

In a statement, the Chilean foreign ministry said restoring consular relations was part of a process toward normalizing bilateral ties.

Chile announced on July 30 a roadmap to reactivate consular relations with Venezuela after they were suspended in 2024 due to diplomatic tensions.

Chile, Venezuela restore consular relations

Tung Chee-hwa, former vice chairman of the National Committee of the Chinese People's Political Consultative Conference (CPPCC) and former chief executive of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR), died of illness at the age of 89 in Hong Kong at 21:57 Tuesday.

Tung is regarded as an outstanding contributor to "one country, two systems," a renowned patriot, an outstanding social activist and a close friend of the Communist Party of China.

He served as vice chairman of the 10th, 11th, 12th and 13th National Committees of the CPPCC. He was the first- and second-term chief executive of the HKSAR.

Former HKSAR Chief Executive Tung Chee-hwa dies at 89