Guyana’s President, Dr. Irfaan Ali, and Venezuela’s President, Nicolas Maduro, reached a peace accord after extensive talks in St. Vincent and the Grenadines on Thursday. The declaration, entitled the Declaration of Argyle for Dialogue and Peace, was read by the Pro-Tempore President of the Community of Latin America and Caribbean Countries (CELAC), Dr. Ralph Gonsalves. It states that…”agreed that Guyana and Venezuela directly or indirectly will not threaten or use force against one another in any circumstances including those consequential to any existing controversies between the two states“.
This means that the two countries should not try to resolve any conflicts that may develop by themselves. Guyana and Venezuela have long-standing territorial disputes, mainly over the Essequibo region. The conflict involves historical claims, natural resource disputes, and differing interpretations of border agreements. Following Venezuelan’s December 3rd referendum, which included a provision for annexing the Essequibo Region, President Maduro declared it as Venezuela’s newest military zone. State oil and mining companies were set to explore for resources, conduct a census, and issue identification cards. Maduro also issued a three-month ultimatum for foreign companies in concessions awarded by Guyana to depart. The matter is currently before the International Court of Justice however, Venezuela does not believe it is a matter for which the ICJ has jurisdiction. The Declaration of Argyle for Dialogue and Peace recognizes the two positions.
Presidents Ali and Maduro affirmed their commitment to good neighborliness and unity in Latin America and the Caribbean. They agreed to establish a joint commission, comprising foreign ministers and technical personnel, addressing agreed-upon matters, with updates submitted to both presidents within three months. Another meeting to discuss the progress of the agreed-upon terms will be held in Brazil in three months.
