Core Viewpoint - Venezuela is emphasizing its sovereignty and peace in response to external pressures, particularly criticizing the U.S. military presence in the Caribbean as a form of colonialism [1] Group 1: Government Actions and Statements - Venezuelan Defense Minister Padrino Lopez highlighted the need to confront external pressures with a stance of sovereignty and peace, specifically targeting U.S. military deployments in the Caribbean [1] - President Maduro called on citizens to participate in commemorative marches, stressing the importance of remembering the strength and wisdom of indigenous peoples while reaffirming commitments to decolonization and social equity [1] - The Bolivarian National Armed Forces (FANB) paid tribute to indigenous leaders on the commemorative day and reiterated their opposition to U.S. military presence in the Caribbean, labeling it a "reiteration of colonial methods" [1] Group 2: U.S.-Venezuela Relations - Relations between Venezuela and the U.S. have been increasingly tense, particularly since early September when the U.S. deployed multiple warships near Venezuela under the pretext of combating drug trafficking in Latin America [1] - President Maduro accused the U.S. of attempting to instigate regime change in Venezuela through military threats and expanding its military presence in Latin America [1]

Core Viewpoint - The French government has returned three human skulls, including that of King Toera of the Sakalava Kingdom, to Madagascar, highlighting the brutal colonial history of France in the region [1][4]. Historical Context - France invaded Madagascar in 1883, forcing the Imerina Kingdom to sign an unequal treaty, and subsequently re-invaded in 1894, leading to Madagascar becoming a French colony in 1896 [4]. - King Toera expressed a desire for peace talks with French forces in 1897, but was killed in a surprise attack, with his head being severed and taken to France as a trophy [4][5]. Colonial Impact - Following Toera's death, Madagascar was transformed into a raw material supplier for France, with forced cultivation of cash crops leading to food shortages [5]. - The French colonial authorities implemented forced labor systems, resulting in high mortality rates among local workers, and imposed heavy taxes that exacerbated poverty [5]. - Cultural assimilation policies marginalized local languages and education, aiming to create a workforce for the French economy [5]. Resistance and Independence - Despite colonial oppression, resistance movements emerged, culminating in a significant uprising in 1947, which, although suppressed, marked the rise of nationalism [5]. - Madagascar gained autonomy in 1958 and achieved full independence on June 26, 1960, commemorating the sacrifices of its ancestors, including King Toera [6]. Recent Developments - In 2023, France passed a law allowing the return of human remains taken during the colonial period, with Toera's skull set to be returned by 2025 [6].

Group 1 - The report titled "Ideological Colonialism - The Means, Roots, and International Hazards of America's Cognitive Warfare" was released at the 2025 Global South Media Think Tank Forum, highlighting the historical context and new trends of cognitive warfare conducted by the United States [1] - The report emphasizes the need for global South countries to recognize the dangers of ideological colonialism and to reclaim cultural sovereignty as a means to achieve true decolonization [1][2] - It argues that cultural confidence is fundamental for national strength, urging developing countries to reassess their history and culture to establish a strong sense of identity and confidence [2] Group 2 - The report advocates for the importance of cultural exchange and mutual learning among civilizations, stating that no civilization exists in isolation and that respect for different cultures is essential for human progress [3] - It calls for global South countries to maintain their cultural roots, assert their autonomy, and foster cooperative efforts to shine on the world stage and contribute to a new chapter in human civilization [3]