Guyana’s Government through the Ministry of Foreign Affairs on Thursday rejected a statement by China’s Charge d’ Affairs on Wednesday that Guyana and Venezuela can solve the border controversy through friendly consultations and negotiations.
In the statement issued by the Foreign Ministry, Government reminded China that its position which is that the matter is pending before the International Court of Justice by a decision of the United Nations Secretary-General in accordance with the parties’ 1966 Geneva Agreement on settlement of the controversy.
The Foreign Ministry also referenced the Argyle Declaration of December 2023 which recognises Guyana’s assertion that it is committed to the process and procedures of the International Court of Justice for the resolution of the border controversy. To that end, and in order not to undermine the jurisdiction or authority of the Court as the appropriate forum for the resolution of this controversy, Guyana will not engage in any discussions of any matter that has been brought before the court.
Further, the government said it has taken note that there has been no comment from the Government of China on the blatant announcement by Venezuela that it intends to conduct elections on May 25, 2025, for a governor and legislative council of “Guayana Esequiba State” which is the name Venezuela has given to Guyana’s Essequibo region. This is a clear violation of Guyana’s Sovereignty and territorial integrity.