– reaffirms Guyana’s ‘vigilance’, readiness to defend sovereignty

COMMANDER-IN-CHIEF of the Armed Forces, President Dr. Irfaan Ali has reaffirmed Guyana’s commitment to “good neighbourliness” as a cornerstone of its foreign policy and dedication to peaceful resolution, while remaining vigilant against any threats to its sovereignty.

The Head of State was at the time addressing the opening of the Guyana Defence Force (GDF) Annual Officers’ Conference at Base Camp Ayanganna, on Thursday, which is being held under the theme, “Transforming to better confront present and future challenges, by enhancing awareness, adaptability and agility capabilities.”

Guyana has been actively working with its international partners, a major one being the United States, to boost its defence and diplomatic capabilities to respond to security threats and also contribute to broader regional security.

“Good neighbourliness is not merely a diplomatic nicety; it is a pragmatic approach to addressing shared challenges, promoting regional integration, and enhancing the well-being of all our citizens through dialogue, cooperation, and respect for each other’s sovereignty,” President Ali stated while reflecting on the principles guiding Guyana’s stance in its ongoing border controversy with Venezuela.

This statement comes after a period of heightened tensions last December, when Venezuela increased its aggressive claims to Guyana’s Essequibo region which is known for its rich reserves of gold, timber, and other natural resources.

Venezuela’s demands for foreign companies to withdraw from Guyana’s territory have sparked international concern and led to diplomatic interventions by CARICOM and CELAC.

A significant breakthrough was achieved during a meeting between President Ali and Venezuela’s President, Nicolas Maduro, held at the Argyle International Airport in St. Vincent and the Grenadines.

Facilitated by Prime Minister Ralph Gonsalves and observed by representatives from Brazil, CARICOM, and the UN, the dialogue resulted in the “Argyle Declaration.”
This 11-point agreement reaffirms both nations’ commitment to peace and establishes that the substantive case regarding the border controversy will be determined by the International Court of Justice (ICJ).

President Ali has reaffirmed that Guyana remains, “100 percent committed to this process and it is an unwavering position.”

“We must never be found blinking, but ever ready to deter and resist any threat to our country,” President Ali proclaimed, highlighting Guyana’s resolve to defend its territorial integrity while maintaining a commitment to international law and peaceful dispute resolution.

The Head of State explained that Guyana’s steadfast approach to the dispute, prioritising diplomatic channels and international legal frameworks, signals a deep commitment to upholding the principles of sovereignty and peaceful coexistence.

The “Argyle Declaration” serves as a testament to the potential for dialogue and cooperation in resolving complex international disputes.