About VE

Venezuela is located on the northern coast of South America, bordered by the Caribbean Sea to the north, Guyana to the east, Brazil to the south, and Colombia to the west.

Capital

The capital city of Venezuela is Caracas.

Population

As of the latest estimates, Venezuela has a population of approximately 28.5 million people.

Area

Venezuela covers an area of about 916,445 square kilometers (353,841 square miles), making it the 32nd largest country in the world.

Official Language

The official language of Venezuela is Spanish.

Government

Venezuela is officially known as the Bolivarian Republic of Venezuela and operates under a federal presidential republic system. The President serves as both the head of state and government.

Independence

Venezuela declared independence from Spain on July 5, 1811.

Currency

The currency of Venezuela is the Venezuelan bolívar soberano (VES).

Economy

Venezuela has vast oil reserves and was historically one of the wealthiest countries in South America. However, economic mismanagement, corruption, and political instability have led to severe economic decline in recent years. The country's economy is heavily dependent on oil exports, with other sectors such as agriculture and manufacturing underdeveloped.

Natural Features

Venezuela is known for its diverse landscapes, including the Andes Mountains in the west, the Amazon rainforest in the south, and the Orinoco River basin in the central and eastern regions. The country is also home to Angel Falls, the world's highest uninterrupted waterfall.

Wildlife

Venezuela boasts rich biodiversity, with diverse ecosystems supporting a wide variety of plant and animal species. The country is home to jaguars, capybaras, anacondas, and numerous bird species, among others.

Culture

Venezuelan culture is a blend of indigenous, African, and European influences. Traditional music, dance, and cuisine reflect this cultural diversity. Venezuelan music genres such as joropo, salsa, and merengue are popular both domestically and internationally.

Challenges

Venezuela faces numerous challenges, including political instability, social unrest, corruption, crime, and shortages of food and essential goods. The country has experienced a significant humanitarian crisis, leading to mass emigration and widespread suffering among its population.

Infrastructure

Venezuela's infrastructure has deteriorated in recent years due to underinvestment, neglect, and economic decline. Basic services such as electricity, water, and healthcare are unreliable in many parts of the country.

International Relations

Venezuela has had a significant impact on regional politics and maintains diplomatic relations with countries around the world. The country has been involved in various international organizations and initiatives, including the Organization of American States (OAS) and the Non-Aligned Movement (NAM).

An example of a hymn in Spanish, the local language spoken in Venezuela, along with its English translation:

1. En la cruz, en la cruz

   do primero vi la luz,

   y las manchas de mi alma yo lavé;

   fue allí por fe do vi a Jesús,

   y siempre feliz con Él seré.

2. Por la fe, por la fe

   miro a Jesús, mi Rey,

   y sus heridas grato soy al ver;

   su grande amor, mi gozo es,

   y siempre cerca a Él quiero yo ser.

1. At the cross, at the cross

   where I first saw the light,

   and the burden of my soul rolled away;

   it was there by faith I received my sight,

   and now I am happy all the day.

2. By faith, by faith

   I look to Jesus, my King,

   and his wounds are sweet to see;

   his great love is my joy,

   and I want to always be close to Him.