Call Venezuela polls ASAP - PM office

(ANSA) - Rome, February 1 - Italy reiterates the need to call fresh elections in Venezuela as soon as possible and stresses the importance of not fuelling internal divisions, the premier's office said Friday.
    "Italy has never recognised the presidential elections held in May 2018, and reiterates the need to call new presidential elections as soon as possible," it said in a statement.
    "Italy, in line with the declaration adopted by the EU High Representative on behalf of the 28 member countries on January 26, reaffirms its utmost concern for the latest developments in Venezuela," it said.
    "Italy, as a member of the Contact Group set up on the occasion of the meeting of EU foreing ministers, is in favour of all diplomatic initiatives that favour a prompt, transparent and peaceful democratic process and averts a stalemate in the country in the prime interest of all the Venezuelan people.
    "Italy hopes that all collective efforts are aimed at not fuelling the divisions inside the country and within the ambit of the international community".
    A standoff between President Nicolas Maduro and opposition leader Juan Guaidò has deepened since the latter proclaimed himself president and was recognised by many Western countries as well as the European Parliament.