President Irfaan Ali reiterated on Wednesday that Guyana will not surrender any part of the Essequibo region to Venezuela, despite Caracas moving forward with plans to hold an election in the disputed territory.
The South American nation’s election plans come in defiance of a recent ruling by the International Court of Justice (ICJ), which ordered Venezuela to refrain from conducting or preparing elections in the area currently under Guyanese control. Venezuela has rejected the ICJ’s authority, asserting that the court has no right to interfere in what it calls its internal affairs.
Speaking to reporters at an event, President Ali was clear: “Not a square inch would be ceded, now or ever.”
He outlined that Guyana’s response to the ongoing border controversy is guided by three pillars—diplomacy, support from the international community, and strengthening the country’s defense capabilities.
“Our instructions to the Ambassador and the Embassy there is to ensure that Guyana’s sovereignty, territorial integrity, and our position is well-known to all stakeholders,” Ali said, referring to Ambassador to Venezuela Dr. Richard Van West-Charles.
President Ali also welcomed recent remarks from U.S. Ambassador to Guyana Nicole Theriot, who described Guyana as “a very important partner.” Ambassador Theriot announced U.S. readiness to support the Guyana Defence Force (GDF) in addressing the rising threat from foreign gangs along the Cuyuni River, a critical stretch of the border with Venezuela.
Ali emphasized that tackling crime is not only about “guns and firing,” but involves extensive behind-the-scenes efforts. “It’s gathering intelligence, it’s understanding what’s happening. We have a holistic approach to this matter and other matters,” he added.
As tensions persist over the Essequibo region, Guyana maintains its firm stance on protecting its sovereignty and territorial integrity.
