Venezuela’s opposition says ready for talks

Venezuela’s opposition party Democratic Unity Roundtable (MUD) says it is ready to negotiate with President Nicolas Maduro following weeks of protests in the country.

MUD leader Ramon Aveledo said on Wednesday, “We are ready for a transparent, balanced and fair dialogue, a public one with a national or international good-faith facilitator… that can mediate if needed.”

Aveledo made the remarks after a meeting with foreign ministers from Union of South American Nations (UNASUR), which was held to find a solution to the political instability of the past few weeks in Venezuela.

The Democratic Unity Roundtable demands reforms in the administration of President Maduro.

Venezuela has been the scene of violent demonstrations between supporters and opponents of the government since early February. The protests broke out over high rates of inflation and unemployment in the country.

The opposition has criticized the government in Caracas for high crime rates and economic hardships, claiming that the policies of the Maduro administration have led to a shortage of essential goods.

Inflation in Venezuela soared last year to 56.2 percent, which was almost three times higher than the 20.1 percent registered in 2012.

The Venezuelan opposition coalition has also been accusing Caracas of carrying out a violent crackdown on anti-government protesters.

However, the Venezuelan government says the opposition has been attempting to carry out a coup with the support of the United States.

Several people have died over the past days of unrest. Hundreds have also been injured.