MANHATTAN, New York — THE ongoing threat to Guyana’s sovereignty and territorial integrity continues to be a major point of contention within the Western Hemisphere. Guyana’s President, Irfaan Ali, addressed the issue during his presentation at the 79th United Nations General Assembly, emphasizing the ongoing claims by Venezuela on two-thirds of the Caribbean nation's territory.
The matter is currently before the International Court of Justice (ICJ), with Venezuela repeatedly avoiding the judicial process.
During his address, President Ali reiterated Guyana’s commitment to upholding international law to protect its territorial integrity, reminding the assembly that Venezuela’s claims have persisted since Guyana’s independence and remain a serious concern for regional stability.
“International law and its strict application have been our armour and our shield in our determination to protect ourselves from this aggression. We remind this august Assembly that the border between Guyana and Venezuela was fully, finally and perfectly settled in an 1899 award by an international tribunal.y,”” President Ali stated confidently.
Although the boundary dispute was resolved decades ago, tensions reignited after Guyana discovered commercial oil reserves. In response, the Nicolás Maduro administration sent soldiers to the borders in an apparent show of force. With Maduro facing domestic challenges and international scrutiny following a controversial election, many view this renewed aggression as an attempt to divert attention.
President Ali further asserted that, “After years of refusing to participate in the proceedings of the ICJ and stating that it does not recognize the jurisdiction of the Court, the Venezuelan government has now submitted a counter memorial to Guyana’s submission. We welcome Venezuela’s decision to participate in the Court’s proceedings, and express the hope that Venezuela will accept the decision of the Court, as Guyana has long pledged to do. I reaffirm Guyana’s unwavering commitment to a peaceful resolution of this long-standing controversy in full conformity with international law and the principles set forth in the United Nations Charter."
Guyana has garnered significant international support in its stance on the border controversy, with several world powers pledging assistance.
Meanwhile, President Ali also took the opportunity to address a range of other global concerns, including the war in Gaza, food insecurity, and health issues.
