GEORGETOWN, Guyana, April 28, 2026 – President Dr. Mohamed Irfaan Ali has formally written to CARICOM Chairman and Prime Minister of St. Kitts and Nevis, Dr. Terrence Drew, objecting to a public display by Venezuela’s Acting President Delcy Rodríguez that falsely portrayed Guyana’s Essequibo region as part of Venezuela during official engagements within CARICOM member states.
In his letter, President Ali underscored Guyana’s respect for the sovereignty of CARICOM member states but condemned the use of regional platforms to advance Venezuela’s territorial claims. He warned that such actions risk being interpreted as acquiescence and undermine both international law and peaceful relations.
Guyana reaffirmed that the boundary between the two countries was settled by the 1899 Arbitral Award, which it described as a “full, perfect, and final settlement.” The President emphasized that Venezuela’s actions are inconsistent with international law and disregard the judicial process currently before the International Court of Justice.
“Guyana remains fully committed to the peaceful resolution of this matter in accordance with international law,” Dr. Ali stated, urging CARICOM leaders to maintain vigilance in safeguarding the Community’s principled position.
The letter also reminded CARICOM Heads of Government of their repeated and unequivocal support for Guyana’s sovereignty and territorial integrity, most recently reaffirmed at the Fiftieth Regular Meeting of the Conference of Heads of Government.
The Guyana, Venezuela border controversy over the Essequibo region is one of the oldest and most consequential territorial disputes in South America, dating back nearly 200 years. It is currently before the International Court of Justice (ICJ), with oral hearings scheduled to begin on May 4, 2026. The case concerns the long-running dispute over the Essequibo region, which is administered by Guyana but claimed by Venezuela. Guyana is asking the court to uphold the 1899 Arbitral Award, which set the boundary.