ISLAMABAD: Pakistan on Sunday expressed concern over the evolving situation in Venezuela and urged all parties to adhere to the principles of the United Nations (UN) charter, its foreign office said.

The statement came a day after President Nicolás Maduro was deposed and captured in a US military operation, with an uncertain future ahead in the South American nation.

While Maduro was in custody in New York, the officials who had surrounded him remained in power and demanded his release. The presidential palace was guarded by armed civilians and members of the military.

Pakistan’s foreign office said that Islamabad attaches great importance to the well-being of the people of Venezuela and views with concern the evolving situation in Venezuela.

“We urge the need for restraint and deescalation to end the crisis, and underscore the necessity for adherence to the principles of the UN charter as well as international law to resolve all outstanding issues,” it said.

The statement came as Venezuelans remained shell-shocked on Sunday.

A tense calm settled over the capital, Caracas, which was unusually quiet. Many stores, gas stations and churches remained closed and people patiently lined up outside others, staring at their phones or into the distance, AP news agency reported.

A number of government supporters rallied over the weekend, some burning US flags.

“We are closely monitoring the developments and remain engaged in ensuring the safety and security of members of the Pakistani community in Venezuela,” the foreign office added.