The Government of the Cooperative Republic of Guyana has issued a statement expressing deep concern regarding recent actions taken by the National Electoral Council of the Bolivarian Republic of Venezuela. These actions pertain to a national referendum scheduled for December 3, 2023, which includes five questions. Of particular concern is the fifth question, which seeks approval for the creation of a new Venezuelan State incorporating Guyana’s Essequibo Region into Venezuela’s national territory and the granting of Venezuelan citizenship to the population.
This move is viewed by Guyana as a direct challenge to its territorial integrity, and it is seen as an attempt to annex Guyana’s territory, contravening fundamental principles of the UN Charter, the OAS Charter, and international law. Such an act would be considered an international crime of aggression.
Guyana vehemently rejects any efforts to undermine its territorial integrity. The Essequibo region, as per the 1899 Arbitral Award defining the boundaries of Venezuela and British Guiana (now Guyana), is an integral part of Guyana’s territory.
The proposal to create a new Venezuelan State within this region and the issuance of citizenship and identity cards under the pretext of the Geneva Agreement and international law are seen as unlawful and unacceptable. Guyana has consistently encouraged Venezuela to engage in the legal process regarding the validity of the 1899 Arbitral Award, which is currently before the International Court of Justice.
Guyana remains steadfast in defending its sovereignty and territorial integrity, with the people of Guyana resolute against any threats to their country’s integrity.
The Government of the Cooperative Republic of Guyana calls upon the international community to take note of the actions by the Government of the Bolivarian Republic of Venezuela, which have the potential to incite violence and pose a threat to the peace and security of Guyana and the wider Caribbean region.
