In response to Venezuela’s recent acts of aggression against Guyana and the controversial announcement regarding Guyana’s Essequibo, CARICOM Heads of Government will gather virtually today for an emergency meeting. While CARICOM has previously addressed the border controversy and International Court of Justice (ICJ) decisions, the urgency arises from Venezuela’s intentions to designate Guyana’s Essequibo as a new Venezuelan state.
Guyana’s Vice President, Dr. Bharrat Jagdeo, conveyed confidence yesterday in the meeting’s outcome during his press conference. Emphasizing CARICOM’s unanimous stance favoring the ICJ as the path to a definitive resolution, he acknowledged that some members still advocate for bilateral engagement with Venezuela to ease tensions.
However, Dr. Jagdeo affirmed Guyana’s unwavering commitment to the ICJ route.
He said, “The Government of Guyana has made it clear that we are open to engagement, however, that matter [the controversy]… that is not a subject of the engagement, because we are not compromising on that position, which is the ICJ route.”
Today’s meeting will feature a presentation by Guyana’s President, Dr. Irfaan Ali and Foreign Affairs officials to the CARICOM Heads of Government. Notably, certain CARICOM Leaders have faced opposition backlash at home for perceived tepid responses to developments in Caracas.
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Despite internal challenges, CARICOM reiterates its steadfast support for Guyana and its case before the ICJ, cautioning Venezuela against any actions targeting Guyana.
The summit aims to address the escalating tensions and reaffirm the regional alliance’s commitment to a peaceful resolution.
