Progress Reported in Venezuela Guyana Talks

Progress appears to have been made in talks in St. Vincent aimed at de-escalating tensions between Venezuela and Guyana that resulted from their territorial dispute.

Venezuela has laid claim to the Essequibo area, a vast border region rich in oil and minerals that represents two thirds of Guyana’s territory.

Venezuela’s President Nicholas Madura has ordered his state-owned companies to explore and exploit the oil, gas and mines in Essequibo and both sides have put their militaries on alert.

While Guyana’s President Dr. Irfaan Ali has repeatedly insisted that the dispute needs to be resolved by the International Court of Justice, both Presidents agreed to meet at the Argyle International airport in St. Vincent today for mediation efforts led by St. Vincent’s Prime Minister Dr. Ralph Gonzalves.

The meeting is also being attended by Barbados Prime Minister Mia Amor Mottley and other Caricom leaders.

During a break in the negotiations President Ali spoke to the large media contingent gathered at the airport to cover the talks.

He indicated there’s a commitment to peace by both Guyana and Venezuela. An interpreter was present to facilitate Spanish-speakers.

Dr. Ali emphasized that Guyana is determined to retain control of its territory but also insists his government wants a resolution without the use of force.

He stressed the importance of the dialogue.