Venezuela, Colombia take step to normalize ties

For the first time in more than three years, a Colombian ambassador was accepted by Venezuela on Monday, signaling a fundamental step in reestablishing diplomatic relations between the neighboring countries.

Armando Benedetti delivered his credentials in Caracas, accrediting him as ambassador to Venezuela after arriving in the country on Sunday. Maduro received Benedetti's diplomatic credentials at the presidential palace.

The bilateral relationship was renewed with the government of Gustavo Petro, the first leftist president in the history of Colombia. Benedetti said that "They are going to reestablish relations with Venezuela.

They are going to go there, reestablish trade as well, it is said that more than 8 million Colombians make a living from it.