Colombia hosts diplomats from 20 countries on Venezuela's political crisis

Diplomats from 20 countries gathered Tuesday in Colombia to discuss the political crisis in Venezuela, where Nicols Maduro's socialist administration has strengthened its autocratic rule despite international efforts to expand political freedoms in the South American nation.

The conference was hosted by Colombian President Gustavo Petro, who has called for sanctions on Venezuela's government to be lifted, but also for policies that ensure more democracy in Venezuela.

Following the five-hour-long meeting, Colombian foreign affairs minister Alvaro Leyva read a brief statement in which he said the participating nations agreed it is necessary for Venezuela's government and opposition parties to set an electoral calendar that ensures free and fair conditions for all involved.

Levya also said there was consensus around lifting sanctions if there's progress in negotiations over Venezuela's political future.

Delegates from the United States, the European Union, Brazil and the United Kingdo