Venezuela's interim president Delcy Rodriguez announced on 22/9 that she had a "historic meeting" with US President Donald Trump. The discussions focused on strengthening bilateral relations and promoting cooperation in strategic areas, including energy, minerals, security, and other issues of mutual benefit.

The White House confirmed the meeting took place on the sidelines of the United Nations General Assembly session in New York. However, it has not yet released specific details of the discussions between the two leaders.

Rodriguez posted a photo with Trump on her X account. The image showed the US president giving a thumbs-up while she formed a V-sign with her fingers, a symbol of peace.

"Venezuela and the US share a historical relationship. In this new phase, we support dialogue, prioritize diplomacy for national interests, and aim for tangible results for the benefit of the Venezuelan people," Rodriguez stated.

US President Donald Trump (right) and Venezuela's interim president Delcy Rodriguez on 22/9 in New York. *Photo: X/Delcyrodriguezv*.

This direct meeting marks the first between leaders of the two countries since US special forces raided Caracas in January. That operation led to the apprehension of Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro for trial in New York on drug-related charges. This is also Rodriguez's first visit to the US since assuming the interim presidency of Venezuela.

Reuters, citing informed sources, revealed that the Venezuelan delegation to New York included the Vice President for Economic Affairs, the Minister of Petroleum, and officials from the national oil company PDVSA.

These sources indicated that the Venezuelan delegation aimed to convey that Venezuela is a suitable destination for foreign investors. Caracas is currently negotiating with Washington, multilateral lenders, and businesses in the energy, mining, and debt management sectors.

Since taking office, Rodriguez has worked to improve relations with Washington. This includes an agreement allowing the US access to Venezuela's vast oil fields.

President Trump also mentioned Venezuela in his address to the United Nations General Assembly on 22/9. He suggested that if the two countries cooperate, they would collectively control over 60% of the world's oil reserves.

He reiterated that Washington signed the "largest oil deal ever" with Caracas in August. He expressed a desire to attract USD 100 billion in investment into Venezuela's oil industry. "To the victor go the spoils," he stated.

By Thanh Danh (According to AFP, Reuters)