Caracas, September 8 (teleSUR-RHC)-- Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro accepted the offered by Brazil and Argentina on Monday to mediate in a dialogue between him and his Colombian counterpart Juan Manuel Santos to discuss and resolve the border issue.

Earlier, the Uruguayan government had also offered to mediate in the dispute between Venezuela and Colombia.

“I accept all the help needed to resolve the issue,” Maduro said. “Let's take this step forward. It is time for courage, bravery and diplomacy ... The time has come for a new border of peace, stability without paramilitaries and without an economic war.”

Maduro called on Santos to re-establish the relationship of dialogue and respect.  The announcement followed Maduro's decision to declare a state of exception in three more municipalities.

“After a precise diagnosis … I have decided to order that the border crossing at Paraguachon, in the state of Zulia beclosed, in order to continue advancing in the eradication of crime, paramilitaries, drug traffickers and (goods) smugglers,” he said.

Maduro also announced the deployment of 3,000 other soldiers to guarantee the safety and tranquility of the people in the state of Zulia.

President Santos had previously said he would meet with Maduro and also accepted the mediation of the Uruguayan government.

“We will be more efficient at the border if we work together in cooperation,” said Santos.

Maduro decreed a state of exception last month in 10 municipalities of the western state of Tachira, which borders with Colombia. His decision followed an attack by Colombian paramilitaries on Venezuelan soldiers, three of which were injured.
    
Venezuela is home to over 5.6 million Colombians – migrants and refugees - who have fled violence and poverty, or who then have family in Venezuela.