CARICOM leaders expressed serious concerns over Venezuela’s plans for elections in Guyana’s Essequibo region. They condemned a recent attack on Guyana Defence Force soldiers and urged Venezuela to respect Guyana’s sovereignty. The Heads of Government emphasized compliance with international law and supported the judicial process to resolve the territorial dispute.
During their recent summit from February 19 to 21, the Caribbean Community (CARICOM) Heads of Government expressed serious concerns regarding Venezuela’s plans to hold elections in Guyana’s Essequibo region. This development has raised alarms about Venezuela’s sovereignty infringement, prompting CARICOM leaders to urge the Venezuelan administration to refrain from any electoral actions within Guyana’s territory.
The CARICOM communique highlighted the February 17 attack on Guyana Defence Force soldiers by armed Venezuelan individuals. The leaders condemned this violent act and reaffirmed their commitment to upholding Guyana’s territorial integrity amidst rising tensions along the border.
The Heads of Government received updates on the longstanding Guyana-Venezuela dispute, noting alarming declarations made by Venezuelan officials regarding elections in Essequibo for April 27, 2025. They emphasized that conducting such elections would violate established principles of international law and the mandates of the International Court of Justice rulings concerning the region.
CARICOM members welcomed Venezuela’s recent submission of their counter-memorial to the International Court of Justice regarding the validity of a 1899 arbitral award on boundary determination. They called upon Venezuela to comply with the court’s schedules, particularly to submit a rejoinder, which is crucial for the ongoing judicial process intended to resolve the dispute peacefully.
The CARICOM Heads reiterated their steadfast support for Guyana’s sovereignty and the judicial mechanisms in place to address the territorial controversy. This firm stance underscores the importance of resolving international disputes through lawful means and reinforces CARICOM’s commitment to regional peace and security.
In summary, the CARICOM Heads of Government have expressed profound concerns over Venezuela’s intentions to conduct elections in Essequibo, condemned recent violence, and reiterated their support for Guyana’s territorial sovereignty. Their calls for compliance with international law and judicial processes reflect a commitment to peaceful resolution of regional disputes.
Original Source: www.stabroeknews.com
