Suriname Protests Guyana’s Development Plans in Disputed Tigri Area

Suriname’s Foreign Affairs Minister, Albert Ramdin, has delivered a protest note to Guyana over proposed developments in the disputed Tigri area, emphasizing concerns about actions taken without Surinamese governmental consent. The minister’s concerns reflect historical tensions linked to territorial claims that continue to strain relations, necessitating careful diplomatic engagement between the two countries.

On Friday, Suriname’s Foreign Affairs Minister, Albert Ramdin, officially lodged a protest against the government of Guyana following claims of development activities planned in a disputed border region. The controversy centers around the Guyanese administration’s intent to upgrade the airstrip at Camp Jaguar, situated within the contested Tigri area. During an audience with Guyanese Ambassador Virjanand Depoo, Ramdin expressed serious concerns regarding unilateral actions in Suriname’s territory without governmental consent. Furthermore, he reiterated that these developments might jeopardize the amicable relations fostered between the two nations.

The dispute dates back to historical conflicts over territorial claims. Previous discussions have highlighted the Tigri area, also known as the New River Triangle, which includes significant portions of both countries. Ramdin emphasized the need for respect towards previously established agreements dating back to 1970 that called for the withdrawal of military forces from the disputed territory. The issue remains sensitive, given the long-standing territorial claims, and continues to impact diplomatic relations between Suriname and Guyana.

The dispute over the Tigri area has historical roots, originating in the 1960s when the Guyanese Defence Force occupied the territory amidst tensions. In 1970, both nations agreed to withdraw military forces under the mediation of Trinidad and Tobago’s Prime Minister but Guyana has continued to maintain a presence in the area. Suriname has made several diplomatic overtures to resolve the conflict peacefully, illustrating the importance of bilateral cooperation despite ongoing territorial claims. The current tensions arise from Guyana’s recent announcements regarding development plans in these contested regions, which have been met with resistance from Suriname on legal and diplomatic grounds.

The ongoing dispute between Suriname and Guyana over the Tigri area exemplifies the complexities of border conflicts rooted in historical tensions. As Suriname formally protests against Guyana’s development initiatives in the disputed region, both nations must navigate carefully to prevent escalation and uphold cooperative relations. The situation underscores the necessity for adherence to historical agreements and diplomatic dialogue amid regional instability.

Original Source: www.jamaicaobserver.com