ISTANBUL

Qatar said Saturday it is ready to contribute to any international effort aimed at reaching an “immediate peaceful solution” in Venezuela, calling for restraint and de-escalation.

In a statement, the Qatar Ministry of Foreign Affairs expressed deep concern over developments in Venezuela, following US attacks on the capital, Caracas, and the detention of President Nicolas Maduro and his wife.

The ministry urged all parties to exercise restraint, reduce tensions and pursue dialogue to address outstanding issues.

It reaffirmed Qatar’s position in support of the UN Charter and principles of international law, including the peaceful settlement of disputes.

Doha reiterated its readiness to assist in any international effort aimed at a peaceful resolution, saying it is keen to keep channels of communication open with all concerned parties.

Following the US strikes in Caracas and the detention of Maduro and his wife, US President Donald Trump said “we're going to run the country until such time as we can do a safe, proper and judicious transition.”

Speaking at a news conference Saturday, Trump said Maduro and his wife were aboard a ship heading to New York, adding that a decision would be made on whether he would be tried in New York or Miami.

Trump also said “very large” US oil companies would be spending “billions of dollars” to fix Venezuela's “badly broken” oil infrastructure and “start making money for the country.”