Diplomatic Talks between Guyana and Venezuela on the Essequibo Dispute Move Toward Peaceful Resolution
Guyana and Venezuela have agreed to pursue dialogue over the Essequibo region without the use of force. This outcome was reported by RIA News, reflecting a joint statement released after talks between the two countries’ leaders. The participants emphasized that the discussions should follow the framework of international law, with a focus on peaceful means to resolve the dispute. The commitment to a nonviolent process aims to reduce tensions and create a clear path toward a lasting settlement. [Citation: RIA News]
The two nations affirmed that any differences would be resolved in accordance with the Geneva Convention of 1966, underscoring the importance of treaty-based approaches and international norms in their bilateral engagement. This reference signals a shared preference for lawful, multilateral mechanisms to address territorial concerns. [Citation: Geneva Convention 1966 records]
During the press statements, Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro echoed the sentiment that neither country would threaten nor employ force against the other under any circumstances, including scenarios arising from the current disagreement. The pledge to refrain from coercive actions is intended to build confidence on both sides and support the viability of ongoing negotiation efforts. [Citation: Official remarks]
Officials reported that President Maduro and Guyanese President Irfaan Ali decided to establish a foreign ministerial–level commission to oversee their engagement on the Essequibo issue. The new mechanism is designed to maintain regular contact, monitor progress, and coordinate diplomatic initiatives across ministries and agencies in both capitals. A scheduled meeting was announced for Thursday, December 14, with discussions to take place on the Caribbean island of St. Vincent. [Citation: Joint statement]
Past statements from the Guyanese side have clarified positions on the conflict, while the Venezuelan leadership has described actions related to the dispute in terms of national interest and regional stability. Both sides appear to prioritize a peaceful, rules-based resolution and a structured process to move beyond unnamed impasses toward practical outcomes. [Citation: Regional briefings]
The announcement indicates a deliberate shift toward formalizing dialogue and leveraging international norms to address a long-standing territorial question. Analysts note that the creation of a high-level commission can help synchronize diplomatic efforts, provide a clearer communication channel, and reduce misinterpretations that have historically fueled tensions between the two countries. [Citation: Expert commentary]
Observers emphasize that the Essequibo dispute remains a sensitive issue with deep historical roots, and the current commitment to nonviolence and formal negotiation marks a critical phase in the bilateral relationship. If successful, these talks could pave the way for practical arrangements, confidence-building measures, and eventually a mutually acceptable settlement that respects each nation’s sovereignty while considering regional stability. [Citation: Regional analyses]
Overall, the process signals a priority on lawful settlement and collaborative diplomacy. The parties are urged to maintain transparency, adhere to agreed procedures, and continue engaging at the highest levels to translate diplomatic intent into measurable progress on the ground. [Citation: Policy reviews]