Iran Hails Venezuela Election as Victory for Democracy

“Holding the presidential election in spite of domestic pressure and foreign threats and sanctions is a great victory and achievement for democracy in Venezuela,” Qassemi said in a Monday statement.

The spokesman also congratulated incumbent Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro for his re-election and said the Islamic Republic hopes foreign states respect the choice of Venezuelan people in the country’s presidential election and support political stability and economic development in this state.

The Islamic Republic of Iran once again underlines the significance of creating deep unity between the Venezuelan government and nation, he noted.

The spokesman also said Tehran is completely prepared to further enhance its mutual relations with Caracas.

Venezuelan President Maduro won re-election, extending his term for another six years. With more than 90 per cent of the votes counted, the incumbent has nearly 68 percent of the ballots against 21-percent cast for his main rival, Henri Falcon.

Maduro was widely believed to be the winner in the poll boycotted by the main opposition party. Addressing the victory rally, the socialist leader hailed the results and called for dialogue to deal with problems.

The opposition has rejected the election as illegitimate and has demanded a new poll. The opposition has long blamed Maduro for wanting to tighten his grip on power.

The government denies the allegations, saying the main opposition boycotted the vote because it saw no chance of victory.