UNITED States Undersecretary for Arms Control & International Security, Ambassador Bonnie Jenkins has reaffirmed the US’ unwavering support for Guyana’s sovereignty and territorial integrity.
Her statements were made during a press conference held at the US Embassy in Georgetown on Friday, amid rising concerns over recent geopolitical developments in the region.
The reaffirmation of support comes in light of recent reports that Russian combat vessels are scheduled to make possible stops in Venezuela, as part of a series of naval exercises in the Caribbean this summer.
These exercises are expected to include port calls in Cuba, and potentially Venezuela, raising questions about regional security implications.
During the press conference, Ambassador Jenkins addressed these concerns, stating, “We certainly always have some concern about the way in which Russia may be engaged in other countries. We’re obviously still, you know, addressing the issue of Russia’s invasion of Ukraine.
“But we also are aware some of that has been and what I can say about that is we’ve been aware they’re working with Cuba and having these kinds of naval exercises in the past. So, we are aware, but we don’t see it as a threat from the US. We are tracking it and so we are well aware of that.”
In addition to addressing the presence of Russian vessels in the region, Ambassador Jenkins was questioned about the smuggling of firearms across the border.
She underscored the close cooperation between the US and Guyana on this issue, underscoring the shared concerns and the commitment to addressing them collaboratively.
“Well, you know, this is another area where we’re working very closely with the government on. We recognise obviously, the concerns of Venezuela and I want to say we are supportive of your government in Guyana, and very much support the sovereignty of the country,” she added.
The ambassador reiterated the US’ position that any changes to the long-standing border agreement, established in 1899, would need to go through legitimate international processes.
The US’ firm stance on supporting Guyana’s sovereignty is particularly significant given the historical and ongoing border controversy with Venezuela.
The 1989 arbitral award that delineates the land boundary between the two nations remains a cornerstone for peaceful resolution, a sentiment echoed by Jenkins during her remarks.
“We still see that as a model for a peaceful resolution. We are committed to your government on this important issue. Our commitment to the country is ironclad.”
As tensions in the Caribbean continue to evolve, the United States’ commitment to Guyana remains a pivotal factor in maintaining stability and security in the region.
The genesis of the border controversy goes back to the 1899 Arbitral Award, a landmark decision that delineated the boundary between Guyana and Venezuela.
Despite the historic arbitration, tensions have persisted, with Venezuela repeatedly challenging the validity of the award.
In 2018, Guyana took a decisive step by approaching the ICJ, seeking affirmation of the award’s legitimacy.
Venezuela initially claimed that the ICJ lacked jurisdiction, a contention flatly rejected by the World Court in a crucial ruling in December 2020. The door was thus opened for the ICJ to delve into the merits of the substantive case.
Lawmakers aligned with Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro have approved the creation of a new state “Guayana Esequiba,” in Guyana’s resource-rich Essequibo region. Venezuela, last year, had intensified claims to two-thirds of Guyana’s Essequibo region.
Guyana’s government reiterated its steadfast commitment to the principles of the United Nations Charter, the Rule of Law, and the peaceful settlement of controversies.
However, the country issued a firm warning that it “will not countenance the annexation, seizure, or occupation of any part of its sovereign territory.”
Guyana remains steadfast in its position, asserting that its borders are non-negotiable, and reaffirming its sovereignty over the territory.
Despite ongoing proceedings before the International Court of Justice (ICJ), Venezuela has persisted in asserting its claims to Guyana’s territory, even citing a controversial 2023 December referendum as so-called justification.
The Caribbean Community (CARICOM) recently expressed deep concern over Venezuela’s persistent, “aggressive” stance towards Guyana amid the ongoing border controversy over the Essequibo region.
This issue was a central topic at the 27th meeting of the Council for Foreign and Community Relations (COFCOR), held in Roseau, Dominica, from May 23-24, 2024.
Despite international rulings and diplomatic efforts advocating for a peaceful resolution, Venezuela has continued to escalate tensions.
The bloc noted that Venezuela’s recent actions have undermined these efforts.
At the COFCOR meeting, foreign ministers noted Guyana’s serious concerns regarding the continued military build-up by Venezuela along their shared border.
They highlighted the importance of regional stability and condemned any action that could further inflame the situation.
