The Private Sector Commission (PSC) of Guyana has strongly condemned what it described as a “deliberate and provocative display of imagery” by Venezuela’s Acting President Delcy Rodríguez during recent high-level engagements in Barbados, warning that continued silence from regional partners could embolden further escalation over the long-running Essequibo territorial dispute.
The statement followed Rodríguez’s April 26–27 state visit to Barbados, during which imagery depicting Guyana’s Essequibo region as part of Venezuela was reportedly displayed in the presence of Barbadian Prime Minister Mia Mottley.
The PSC said the incident reflects a broader pattern of symbolic actions aimed at undermining Guyana’s sovereignty and influencing regional perceptions.
“This act is neither incidental nor benign,” the Commission stated, describing it as “symbolic aggression” intended to shape narratives and test international resolve.
The PSC reaffirmed Guyana’s position that “Essequibo is Guyana’s,” stressing that the territory is under Guyanese administration, inhabited by its citizens, and protected under international law.
It also pointed to Venezuela’s continued actions, including the creation of a so-called “Guayana Esequiba State,” which Georgetown considers inconsistent with orders and interim measures issued by the International Court of Justice (ICJ), as well as commitments under the Argyle Declaration.
The Commission noted that Venezuela’s recent regional diplomatic engagements, including earlier visits in Grenada and Barbados, have increasingly featured symbolic references reinforcing its claim over the disputed territory.
Calling for a unified response, the PSC urged the Government of Barbados—described as a long-standing CARICOM partner of Guyana—to take a clear stance in defence of sovereignty and territorial integrity. It also called on CARICOM and international partners to remain “vigilant and unequivocal” in their support for the rule of law.
“Silence or inaction in the face of such deliberate provocation risks emboldening further escalation,” the PSC warned.
The statement concluded with a firm reaffirmation of Guyana’s position, stressing that the country’s economic stability and development depend on respect for its internationally recognized borders.
“Essequibo belongs to Guyana,” the Commission said.
The dispute comes as the International Court of Justice prepares to hear arguments next month on the validity of the 1899 Arbitral Award that established the boundary between Guyana and Venezuela, with a final ruling expected in early 2027.
