The United States Secretary of State spoke by telephone with Guyanese President Irfaan Ali to discuss the ongoing border dispute with Venezuela. President Ali conveyed Washington’s continued preference for a peaceful settlement and underscored the importance of upholding existing legal agreements. The message, issued by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, confirms that the United States urged a calm approach and the observance of established border arrangements while parties explore avenues for resolution within the framework of international law.
According to the statement, the Secretary of State reaffirmed Washington’s call for a diplomatic path that avoids escalations and respects the 1899 arbitration award which delineates the land boundary between Venezuela and Guyana. The message notes that any modification to that boundary should come only through a new agreement between the parties or a ruling by a competent legal authority. This stance reflects the U.S. preference for formal, lawful processes to determine border issues rather than unilateral actions that could complicate the situation.
The report adds that both leaders acknowledged the International Court of Justice decision issued on December 1, which urged all sides to refrain from measures that might aggravate or prolong the dispute. The ICJ ruling is presented as a critical reference point in guiding behavior and preventing provocative moves while peaceful negotiations continue.
During the discussion, the Secretary of State also reiterated the United States’ steadfast support for Guyana’s sovereignty and territorial integrity. The United States expressed a commitment to work closely with Guyana, particularly as the country prepared for its January 2024 non-permanent seat on the United Nations Security Council. This cooperation reflects ongoing efforts to promote regional stability and uphold international norms in the Western Hemisphere.
The political context around the Essequibo region remained a focal point of the conversation. Reports indicate that a referendum held in December sought to determine whether the Essequibo area, which covers most of Guyana’s western region, should be integrated with Venezuela. Venezuelan authorities reported voter turnout above half of the eligible population, with a notable majority voting in favor of integration. Observers from various groups noted that turnout appeared uneven, and media coverage highlighted the complexity of the issue and the implications for bilateral relations as well as regional stability.
Guyanese officials have consistently refused to cede territorial claims and have indicated willingness to seek international support to safeguard their borders. The Caribbean Community has issued statements affirming Guyana’s territorial integrity, emphasizing regional solidarity and adherence to internationally recognized borders. The episode underscores the fragility of border disputes in the region and the importance of sustained diplomacy, international law, and multilateral engagement to prevent unilateral moves that could destabilize the area.
In summary, the dialogue between the U.S. Secretary of State and Guyanese leadership highlighted a shared commitment to peaceful dispute resolution, adherence to legal instruments, and broad collaboration on regional security and governance. Both sides reaffirmed the value of calm engagement and the avoidance of actions that could provoke tension, with ongoing support for Guyana’s sovereignty and a readiness to coordinate through international forums to seek durable solutions to the Essequibo dispute.