ISTANBUL

The United States and Venezuela’s interim authorities have agreed to re-establish diplomatic and consular relations, the US State Department said Thursday.

In a statement issued by the Office of the Spokesperson, the department said "the step will facilitate joint efforts to promote stability, support economic recovery and advance political reconciliation in Venezuela."

"Our engagement is focused on helping the Venezuelan people move forward through a phased process that creates the conditions for a peaceful transition to a democratically elected government," the statement said.

“The United States remains committed to supporting the Venezuelan people and working with partners across the region to advance stability and prosperity,” it added.