March 11 (Reuters) - Venezuela's acting President Delcy Rodriguez said on Wednesday that she has appointed Paula Henao to be the country's oil minister, filling the key role as the country overhauls its oil production amid U.S. pressure.
The critical position became vacant when Rodriguez, who had been serving as both oil minister and vice president, rose to the presidency following the United States' capture of President Nicolas Maduro in January.
Henao, previously vice oil minister, will take the helm as the U.S. pushes to open Venezuela to American investment, especially in oil, gas, and mining. President Donald Trump has publicly praised Rodriguez for cooperating on efforts to move oil to the United States.
Venezuela is home to the world's largest proven oil reserves.
"I am fully confident that, with her professionalism, extensive experience and many years of service within this ministry, we will advance in the recovery and development of the energy sector, a fundamental pillar for economic growth and the well-being of the Venezuelan people," Rodriguez said in a social media post.
(Reporting by Reuters, Writing by Brendan O'Boyle, Editing by Daina Beth Solomon)
