Guyana has issued a call for international legislators to denounce Venezuela’s recent actions aimed at asserting control over the Essequibo region, a significant portion of the Caribbean Community (CARICOM) nation.
Anil Nandlall, the Attorney General and Minister of Legal Affairs, delivered this urgent appeal during the 148th Inter-Parliamentary Union (IPU) Assembly.
Demand for diplomatic resolution
Nandlall underscored the imperative for parliamentary bodies worldwide to address Venezuela’s actions, stressing the importance of upholding international law and fostering diplomatic avenues for resolving conflicts.
He emphasized that such condemnation is not merely a gesture of support to Guyana but a fundamental obligation in line with the principles of the IPU.
IPU’s potential for global change
Highlighting the influential role of parliamentary institutions, Nandlall envisioned them as a potent force for global transformation, particularly in promoting peace and understanding.
He lamented the underutilization of this potential, citing ongoing humanitarian crises such as the situation in Gaza and democratic deficits in Venezuela.
Historical context of territorial dispute
Drawing attention to Venezuela’s longstanding claim over a significant portion of Guyana’s territory, Nandlall provided historical context, pointing out that this dispute was conclusively settled by arbitration in 1899.
However, he highlighted Venezuela’s subsequent rejection of the arbitration award and its persistent refusal to accept the jurisdiction of the International Court of Justice (ICJ) in resolving the matter.
International condemnation and diplomatic efforts
Nandlall underscored the widespread condemnation of Venezuela’s actions by major international organizations, including the UN, EU, Commonwealth, OAS, CARICOM, and CELAC.
He also noted the support extended by various governments, emphasizing diplomatic initiatives aimed at de-escalating tensions and resolving the dispute through dialogue.
Escalation of tensions
Despite diplomatic efforts and interim measures imposed by the ICJ, Nandlall expressed concern over Venezuela’s recent legislative actions to annex a significant portion of Guyana’s territory.
This move, he asserted, constitutes a breach of both legal obligations and the spirit of diplomatic agreements, further exacerbating tensions between the two nations.
