Delcy Rodríguez bids farewell to and decorates rescue groups from more than 20 countries

Caracas.- The acting Venezuelan president, Delcy Rodríguez, decorated and bid farewell this Saturday to rescue workers from seven countries, who join the rescue groups from nearly twenty nations that also received the Heroes of Venezuela distinction on Friday for their efforts following the recent earthquakes.

In a televised event, 143 rescuers from Argentina, 22 from Barbados, 188 from Brazil, 87 from France, 46 from India, 161 from Qatar, and 69 from the United Kingdom were recognized, as well as a total of 29 dogs.

“This is the universal solidarity that must inspire the peoples of the world,” said Rodríguez, who wished them a happy return to their respective countries.

You may be interested in: Venezuela thanks Putin’s government for its “unconditional support” after the earthquakes

For the Chavista leader, there is still “hope for family members to find people alive.”

Recognition for the rescuers

On Friday, Rodríguez, who assumed office after the capture of Nicolás Maduro six months ago by the United States, decorated rescuers from Spain, Germany, Bolivia, Chile, Colombia, Costa Rica, Cuba, El Salvador, Slovakia, Jordan, Lithuania, Mexico, Panama, Portugal, the Czech Republic, the Dominican Republic, Turkey, and Vietnam.

“Your courage, solidarity, and spirit of service represent an example of brotherhood among nations. Your dedication will remain forever in the memory and heart of the Venezuelan people,” expressed the head of state in a post on Telegram.

According to UN figures, the number of international rescuers reached 3,000 following the 7.2 and 7.5 magnitude earthquakes on June 24, but several have already left the country as the probability of finding people alive decreases.

According to the official balance sheet published this Saturday, the earthquakes left at least 2,954 dead and 16,592 injured, as well as 16,309 people homeless.

Rodríguez expressed his gratitude on Thursday for the solidarity of 72 heads of state and government and the thirty or so nations that, he said, sent medical and rescue brigades to his country.