Home Affairs Minister Robeson Benn, speaking at the opening of a conference of the Caribbean Community (CARICOM) Regional Security System, expressed Guyana’s dismay over the recent actions taken by Venezuela regarding the long-standing border dispute between the two countries.
Minister Benn used the occasion to highlight Venezuela’s decision to disregard the Argyle Declaration, an agreement made between the two nations in December in St. Vincent, aimed at maintaining peace and stability in the disputed region.
Benn denounced Venezuela’s unilateral move to declare the Essequibo region, previously recognized as a Zona de Reclamacion, as Venezuelan territory. He characterised this action as regrettable and a clear violation of the principles of good faith discussions held during the Argyle meeting and subsequent talks in Brazil.
Reiterating Guyana’s stance on the matter, Benn affirmed that the border controversy with Venezuela would be resolved through legal channels, specifically at the International Court of Justice (ICJ). This statement reinforces Guyana’s commitment to pursuing a peaceful and lawful resolution to the dispute.
The sentiments by Minister Benn comes in wake of reports that in Venezuela, lawmakers aligned with President Nicolas Maduro’s government approved the establishment of a new state within the disputed territory despite ongoing legal proceedings at the international level. This decision aligns with Maduro’s recent assertions regarding Venezuela’s purported sovereignty over the Essequibo region.
Despite the approval of the new state, known as Guayana Esequiba, its immediate practical implications remain uncertain. The move comes amid Venezuela’s refusal to recognize the authority of the ICJ, opting instead to assert control over the disputed area based on domestic political decisions.
The approved law delineates the borders of Guayana Esequiba, encompassing significant portions of land and maritime territory adjacent to Guyana. Tumeremo, located in the Bolivar state, is designated as the provisional capital until a resolution is reached with Guyana.
Venezuela’s renewed claim to the Essequibo region coincides with heightened interest in the area due to recent oil and gas discoveries. However, Guyana has adamantly maintained its sovereignty over the territory and reiterated its commitment to defending its borders.
