After the recent tragedy in the Republic of Equatorial Guinea, where a series of explosions killed and injured dozens of people and caused significant material damage, the Bolivarian Republic of Venezuela reaffirmed its solidarity by sending humanitarian aid for the victims.
On behalf of the Venezuelan people and President Nicolás Maduro, the Vice-minister for Africa, Yuri Pimentel, arrived in Bata to deliver a shipment of supplies as a symbol “of brotherhood and solidarity with the people of Equatorial Guinea and His Excellency, president (Teodoro) Obiang.”
In this regard, the Venezuelan diplomat stressed the importance of Venezuela being present in this difficult time in the African nation.
“We could not fail a people and country we feel as ours (…) We are here to offer our friendship and solidarity, especially in difficult times. You can rely on us and the Venezuelan people,” said Pimentel.
Vice-minister Pimentel was welcomed by the Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, Simeón Oyono Esono Angüe. Later, he met with Vice-president, in charge of defense and security, Teodoro Nguema Obiang Mangue, to express Venezuela’s commitment and support.
On March 7, 2021, a series of four explosions occurred in Bata, the largest city and commercial capital of the Central African country of Equatorial Guinea, causing casualties and damage throughout the city. The explosions occurred at the Nkoantoma military base and caused significant damage to the areas surrounding the military base, including neaby buildings and homes.
According to the UN Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA), satellite imagery “shows the blast caused widespread damage over an 800-meter radius.”
May 2021 marks the 40th anniversary of Venezuela-Equatorial Guinea diplomatic relations. “But the historical roots of our relation go back further,” stressed the Venezuelan vice-minister for Africa.