The Chairperson and Principal Lecturer of the Zimbabwe Institute of Diplomacy (ZID), Mr. Vova Chikanda, was interviewed by Monica Chanda on Classic 263 radio to discuss the ongoing situation involving Venezuela and its wider implications for global peace and international relations.

During the discussion, Mr. Chikanda highlighted the importance of diplomacy in resolving differences and hostilities between leaders of nations to prevent escalation into conflict. He reminded listeners that history has shown the catastrophic impact when diplomatic avenues are sidelined particularly referencing how failures to resolve disputes peacefully contributed to the outbreak of World War II.

He also stressed the need for respect for international law as a strategic approach to maintaining world peace and upholding a stable global order, especially among major powers. This was underscored amid recent international reactions to military actions and interventions in Venezuela, where many global actors have urged peaceful dialogue and adherence to international norms.

Mr. Chikanda echoed on the radio that “We may talk of it as national interest but national interest must be made in calculation and not in violation of the national interest of other nations, not in violation of International law.” He explained that this response reflects a diplomatic perspective while each nation has the right to safeguard its national interests, it must not do so at the expense of another state’s sovereignty or by breaching international legal principles.