CARICOM Heads Urge Venezuela to Respect Guyana’s Sovereignty Amid Election Controversy

CARICOM Heads expressed serious concerns over Venezuela’s election plans in Essequibo during their summit, urging Venezuela to respect Guyana’s sovereignty and condemning an armed attack on Guyana Defence Force soldiers. They reasserted support for Guyana’s territorial integrity and pushed for peaceful judicial resolution concerning the ongoing controversy with Venezuela.

During their summit held from February 19 to 21, CARICOM Heads expressed significant concern regarding Venezuela’s announced plans to conduct elections in Guyana’s Essequibo region. They issued a communique urging Venezuela to refrain from executing elections or any form of intrusion into Guyana’s sovereign territory.

The Heads condemned a February 17 attack on the Guyana Defence Force by individuals from Venezuela, marking it as an unacceptable act of aggression. They received updates on the ongoing Guyana/Venezuela territorial dispute and noted remarks from Venezuelan officials on conducting elections within the disputed region.

CARICOM Heads asserted that holding such elections would violate international law principles and agreements between the nations. They emphasized their solidarity with Guyana’s sovereignty and territorial integrity, reinforcing their call for peaceful resolution through judicial means.

The leaders welcomed Venezuela’s submission regarding the 1899 Arbitral Award’s validity and encouraged further cooperation in aligning with the International Court of Justice’s schedule for the case. They reiterated their support for a peaceful resolution in accordance with international legal standards, urging compliance with court orders.

In summary, CARICOM Heads conveyed their deep concerns regarding Venezuela’s election plans in Essequibo and reaffirmed their commitment to Guyana’s sovereignty. The condemnation of the recent armed attack highlights the growing hostilities in the region. The leaders’ united stance emphasizes the importance of upholding international law and seeking peaceful resolutions through judicial means.

Original Source: www.stabroeknews.com