IN an extraordinary display of unity and patriotism, the National Assembly of Guyana was convened on Monday (yesterday) to discuss a motion that reaffirmed Guyana’s recognition and acceptance of the 1899 Arbitral Award as a “full, perfect, and final” settlement of the boundary between Guyana and Venezuela.
This historic event demonstrated the unwavering commitment of the nation’s parliamentarians to the Rule of Law and their determination to protect Guyana’s sovereignty against any encroachment by Venezuela.
The extraordinary sitting of the National Assembly was a remarkable moment in Guyana’s history, as parliamentarians from both sides of the House joined hands to champion a singular cause.
The unanimous support for this motion sends a powerful and unambiguous message to the world: Guyana stands united in its commitment to upholding international law, respecting the sanctity of historical agreements, and defending its territorial integrity.
The 1899 Arbitral Award, which established the boundary between Guyana and Venezuela, has been a longstanding pillar of Guyana’s territorial sovereignty.
The reiteration of its acceptance as “full, perfect, and final” signifies Guyana’s strong belief in the international order and its commitment to the principles of justice and equity.
The motion tabled in the Assembly by the Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, Hugh Todd, was not merely a reaffirmation of the past, but was also a resounding declaration that Guyana’s stance on this matter remains steadfast and unwavering, especially at a time when Venezuela has announced its plans to hold a referendum on Guyana’s Essequibo.
It is particularly noteworthy that parliamentarians from both the government and opposition benches came together in a spirit of national unity.
This bipartisan approach underscores the gravity of the situation and the shared conviction that issues of national sovereignty should transcend political divides. In a world where polarisation and division often dominate political discourse, this unity is a testament to the maturity and statesmanship of Guyana’s political leaders.
During the extraordinary session, strong and unequivocal statements were made from both sides of the House. Parliamentarians emphasised Guyana’s unyielding commitment to the ongoing case before the International Court of Justice (ICJ) – a case that seeks to bring a peaceful and lawful resolution to the long-standing border controversy with Venezuela.
This commitment demonstrates Guyana’s willingness to abide by international legal processes and its dedication to resolving issues through peaceful means, in stark contrast to unilateral actions or territorial claims.
The unity displayed in the National Assembly serves as a powerful reminder to Venezuela that Guyana stands firmly in the international community in its resolve to protect its territory and the rights of its citizens. It also sends a clear message to the ICJ, reaffirming Guyana’s confidence in the court’s ability to adjudicate the matter fairly and justly.
Furthermore, this remarkable display of unity should serve as an inspiration to other nations facing similar challenges. In a world characterised by geopolitical tensions and territorial disputes, Guyana’s commitment to the Rule of Law and unity within its own ranks is a beacon of hope and an example for others to follow.
Guyana’s stance is not just a matter of land and borders; it is a reaffirmation of its dedication to the principles of international law and the promotion of a world where disputes are settled through dialogue, diplomacy, and the Rule of Law.
