GUYANA firmly bound to ICJ decision on 125 year old Guyana-Venezuela border dispute

KINGSTOWN, St. Vincent and the Grenadines, March 2, 2024 - In a decisive statement at the 8th Summit of the Community of Latin American and Caribbean States (CELAC) held in St. Vincent, Guyana's President Irfaan Ali reaffirmed his nation's unwavering commitment to resolving the long-standing border controversy with Venezuela through the International Court of Justice (ICJ).

Amidst a gathering of regional leaders, including Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro, President Ali underscored Guyana's readiness to adhere to the ICJ's forthcoming judgment on the dispute that involves the vast 160,000 square kilometer Essequibo Region.

While expressing Guyana's openness to dialogue aimed at bolstering bilateral relations, President Ali was unequivocal about the legal path forward. "The Guyana-Venezuela border issue is squarely before the International Court of Justice," he stated, pointing to the Joint Declaration of Argyle on Dialogue and Peace which acknowledges Guyana's dedication to the ICJ's process and procedures for settling this century-old contention.

President Ali's remarks come against the backdrop of Venezuela's refusal to recognize the ICJ's jurisdiction over the border dispute, favoring a bilateral resolution under the 1966 Geneva Agreement instead.

This stance by Venezuela has not deterred Guyana from seeking a peaceful and lawful resolution, with Ali emphasizing the importance of the region remaining a "Zone of Peace."

Furthermore, President Ali addressed concerns regarding defense cooperation and military activities in the region, urging CELAC leaders not to misconstrue these as acts of aggression against Venezuela.

He clarified that recent air surveillance and sea exercises by Guyana, alongside defense cooperation with nations like the United States, the United Kingdom, and France, were unrelated to the border controversy.

Dismissing claims of Guyana serving as a staging ground for potential aggression against Venezuela, Ali assured, "Guyana prioritizes peace, and our territory will never be used as a platform for war."

The Guyanese leader also praised Brazilian President Luis Inacio ‘Lula’ Da Silva for his principled leadership, contributing to regional progress and prosperity.

In a gesture of goodwill, President Ali and President Maduro exchanged cultural gifts, symbolizing a hope for peaceful dialogue despite the looming legal battle.

As Guyana stands firm on its commitment to an international judicial resolution, the eyes of Latin America and the Caribbean are closely watching the unfolding of this historic dispute, with hopes for a peaceful and just outcome that respects the principles of international law and sovereignty.

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