February 11, 2004
This Public Announcement is being issued to alert US citizens to the current political situation in Venezuela. It supersedes the Public Announcement of August 15, 2003, and will expire on May 11, 2004.
The political situation remains fluid. On or after February 13, 2004, the Venezuelan Electoral Council (CNE) will announce whether it will ratify either the opposition or pro-government signature petitions, aimed at gaining approval for a recall referendum of President Chavez and a number of pro-government and opposition legislators. Political demonstrations, with potential for violence, may take place during this period of uncertainty. U.S. citizens should avoid all demonstrations and areas where groups are gathering. Additionally, they should monitor radio and TV broadcasts for any sudden changes in the political situation.
In the case of an emergency or for the latest security information, the U.S. Embassy can be reached by e-mail at consularcaracas@state.gov or by telephone at 58-212-975-9777 during working hours. Up to date information on security conditions can also be obtained by calling 1-888-407-4747 toll-free in the U.S., or, for callers outside the U.S. and Canada, a regular toll line at 1-317-472-2328. For further information, please see the Consular Information Sheet for Venezuela and the Worldwide Public Announcement on the Bureau of Consular Affairs Internet home page at http://travel.state.gov.
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