Juan David Latorre On the occasion of the 213th anniversary of the National Independence of the Republic of Venezuela, Ambassador Gladys Gutiérrez hosted a reception for the Diplomatic Corps at her residence last Friday. Before a large number of members of the Venezuelan community in Spain, Gladys Gutiérrez began her speech by underlining the "enormous significance" of this "historic" event that brought together those gathered at the diplomatic event. "On 5 July 1811, in the city of Caracas, the Venezuelan ambassador pointed out, a group of visionaries signed the Act of Declaration of Independence. This act marked the birth of a new nation based on moral principles underpinning the idea of the common good." "Patriots such as Francisco de Miranda, Simón Bolívar, Juan Germán Roscio and many others, she continued, led with courage and wisdom this transcendental movement that began our emancipatory process and has brought us to this moment." Gladys Gutiérrez indicated that the Embassy was opening its doors not only to this commemoration, but also "to celebrate the subsequent historical communion that emerged from languages, from pluriculturalism and diversity that today make up the Venezuelan nation." On this day of celebration," declared the Venezuelan Ambassador, "we express our appreciation to all Venezuelan men and women, both in our homeland and abroad, who work tirelessly for the well-being and progress of our nation. We wish to wish for the unity of the Venezuelan people, that this July 5th be a renewed commitment to Venezuela, a reminder that together we can achieve great things". The ambassador concluded her remarks by remarking that although "throughout our history we have faced many challenges as a people and a republic, the indomitable spirit of the Venezuelan people has proven to be a powerful force capable of overcoming any obstacle. This is how every year we remember the strength and courage of those who preceded us and inspire us with their example, so that we do not cease in the construction of a nation with justice and equality for all". Between tequeños and arepas, which the guests enjoyed, the reception featured musical performances by members of the Centre for Cultural Diversity with their melodies, sounds and flavours, and the group Dimensión Latina. The event was attended by the ambassadors of Colombia, Switzerland, China, India, Hungary and Bolivia, among others, along with representatives from Egypt, Malaysia, Dominican Republic, Russia and Serbia. The Nicaraguan Ambassador, Maurizio Gelli, with the Chargé d'Affaires a.i. of the Embassy of Haiti, Carl-Eric Barthelus. Numerous guests and members of the diplomatic corps attended the Venezuelan convocation. Musical performance by members of the Centre for Cultural Diversity, with their melodies, sounds and flavours.