In a significant diplomatic achievement, the French government has successfully secured the freedom of a French-Chilean national who was imprisoned in Venezuela for four months.
Diplomatic Victory Announced
The French Foreign Minister, Jean-Noël Barrot, took to the social media platform X on Sunday 16 November 2025 to announce the breakthrough. He confirmed that Camilo Castro was being flown back to France, crediting the success to persistent and effective French diplomacy.
In a separate post, French President Emmanuel Macron expressed his profound relief at Castro's release. Macron's statement highlighted the quiet yet determined approach of French foreign policy, writing: “France sometimes advances quietly, but always with determination and composure: That is how we protect our own.”
The Circumstances of the Detention
According to details provided by Amnesty International, the situation leading to the detention was anything but sinister. Camilo Castro, a 41-year-old yoga teacher who resides in Colombia, travelled to neighbouring Venezuela in June.
His intention was a simple, quick there-and-back trip to extend his Colombian visa. However, he went missing after crossing the border, leading to a four-month ordeal of imprisonment before French diplomatic efforts finally secured his release.
Wider Implications for International Relations
This successful prisoner release underscores the vital role of robust diplomatic channels in resolving international incidents involving detained citizens. The case highlights the complexities individuals can face when travelling across borders, even for routine administrative purposes.
The swift and decisive action by the French authorities demonstrates a committed government working to protect its nationals abroad, a reassurance to citizens travelling and living overseas.
