The Government of the Cooperative Republic of Guyana has issued a stern condemnation in response to Venezuela’s recent adoption of a law by the Venezuelan National Assembly, declaring the Essequibo region of Guyana as a constituent part of Venezuela. This action, which encompasses more than two-thirds of Guyana’s national territory, has raised significant concerns over sovereignty and territorial integrity.
In a statement released by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, Guyana asserts that Venezuela’s move blatantly violates international law principles, including those enshrined in the United Nations Charter. Moreover, it represents a direct breach of the Order on provisional measures issued by the International Court of Justice (ICJ) on December 1, 2023, and the Argyle Declaration of December 14, 2023, which aimed to foster peace and stability in the region.
Emphasising its commitment to peace and regional stability, Guyana has reaffirmed its resolve to safeguard its sovereignty and territorial integrity. The government vows to exhaust all legal avenues under international law to ensure the preservation of its borders.
This statement comes on the heels of remarks made by Home Affairs Minister Robeson Benn during the opening of a Caribbean Community (CARICOM) Regional Security System conference. Minister Benn expressed Guyana’s dismay over Venezuela’s recent actions, particularly its disregard for the Argyle Declaration and its unilateral declaration of the Essequibo region as Venezuelan territory.
Minister Benn reiterated Guyana’s position that the border dispute with Venezuela must be resolved through legal means, specifically at the ICJ. This underscores Guyana’s commitment to pursuing a peaceful and lawful resolution to the longstanding controversy.
Reports indicate that Venezuela’s approval of the establishment of a new state within the disputed territory, named Guayana Esequiba, aligns with President Nicolas Maduro’s government’s stance on sovereignty over the region. Despite ongoing legal proceedings at the international level, Venezuela’s move reflects its refusal to recognize the authority of the ICJ.
The approved law delineates the borders of Guayana Esequiba, encompassing significant land and maritime territory adjacent to Guyana. Tumeremo, situated in the Bolivar state, has been designated as the provisional capital pending resolution with Guyana.
Venezuela’s renewed claim to the Essequibo region coincides with increased interest in the area due to recent oil and gas discoveries. However, Guyana remains steadfast in asserting its sovereignty over the territory and reiterates its commitment to defending its borders against any illegitimate claims or actions.
