Introduction to the Border Controversy

The Government of Guyana has strongly rejected a recent statement from China’s chargé d’affaires suggesting that Guyana and Venezuela can resolve their longstanding border controversy through “friendly consultations and negotiations.”

In a statement issued on April 17, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation reiterated that the matter is already before the International Court of Justice (ICJ), following a decision by the United Nations Secretary General and in accordance with the 1966 Geneva Agreement between the parties.

“The Ministry reminds the Government of the People’s Republic of China of the position made pellucidly clear on several occasions by the Government of the Cooperative Republic of Guyana,” the statement said, affirming that Guyana is committed to the ICJ process and will not engage in parallel discussions that could undermine the Court’s authority.

Commitment to the ICJ Process

The ministry pointed to the Argyle Declaration of December 14, 2023, which recognizes Guyana’s firm commitment to resolving the issue via the ICJ. “In order not to undermine the jurisdiction or authority of the Court… Guyana will not engage in discussion of any matter that has been brought before the Court,” the ministry emphasized.

Guyana also expressed concern over China’s silence regarding Venezuela’s recent provocative actions, specifically Caracas’ plan to hold elections on May 25, 2025, for a governor and legislative council in the so-called “Guayana Esequiba State”—a name Venezuela has unilaterally assigned to Guyana’s Essequibo region.

“The Ministry… has taken note that there has been no comment from the Government of the People’s Republic of China” regarding this declaration, which Guyana deems a “clear violation” of its sovereignty and territorial integrity.

Escalating Diplomatic Tension

As the diplomatic tension surrounding the century-old territorial dispute escalates, the Government of Guyana reaffirmed that principles of international law and mutual respect will remain the foundation of its foreign policy and interactions with the global community.

The border controversy centers on Venezuela’s claim to the Essequibo region, which comprises about two-thirds of Guyana’s territory. The ICJ is currently considering the validity of the 1899 arbitral award that established the boundary between the two countries.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the Government of Guyana remains committed to resolving the border controversy through the ICJ process, and will not engage in parallel discussions that could undermine the Court’s authority. The country reaffirms its commitment to principles of international law and mutual respect, and calls on the international community to respect its sovereignty and territorial integrity.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What is the border controversy between Guyana and Venezuela?

A: The border controversy centers on Venezuela’s claim to the Essequibo region, which comprises about two-thirds of Guyana’s territory.

Q: What is the ICJ process?

A: The ICJ process refers to the International Court of Justice’s consideration of the validity of the 1899 arbitral award that established the boundary between Guyana and Venezuela.

Q: What is Guyana’s position on the border controversy?

A: Guyana is committed to resolving the issue via the ICJ process and will not engage in parallel discussions that could undermine the Court’s authority.