FM Gil presented a replica of the sword of Gen. Urdaneta Farias, a hero of Venezuelan independence.
On August 6, 2025, Bolivian President Luis Arce met with Venezuelan Foreign Affairs Minister Yvan Gil during the celebrations of Bolivia’s 200th anniversary of independence in Sucre.
The meeting took place at the historic Freedom House, where Arce emphasized the enduring political ties of brotherhood and cooperation between Bolivia and Venezuela. He expressed these sentiments on social media, sending greetings to President Nicolas Maduro. “We had a pleasant meeting with Venezuelan Foreign Minister Yvan Gil, reaffirming our ties of solidarity and cooperation on energy and scientific matters,” Arce stated.
During the ceremony, which highlighted Bolivia’s independence history, Gil presented a replica of General Rafael Urdaneta’s sword, a significant symbol of Venezuelan independence and a connection to Simon Bolivar. “This symbol represents the loyalty between our peoples and to the cause of liberation,” Gil noted, alongside members of the Bolivarian National Armed Forces, who displayed the sword’s standard.
In an interview, Gil remarked that Venezuela joined Bolivia to commemorate this milestone, viewing it as part of the larger struggle against colonialism and imperialism. He underscored the importance of the Bolivarian Alliance for the Peoples of Our America (ALBA-TCP) for regional integration and cooperation.
Both leaders discussed the shared challenges facing their nations, including the economic blockade against Venezuela and geopolitical tensions that threaten progressive governments in Latin America. They stressed the necessity of unity as a means of resistance against what they termed “modern fascism” and the systemic attacks on the rights of marginalized groups.
These discussions reflect a consolidating relationship between Bolivia and Venezuela, aiming to reinforce their positions in a rapidly changing political landscape, while commemorating a significant chapter in Bolivia’s struggle for independence, reports 24brussels.
