Dear Editor,
The recently concluded meeting between President Irfaan Ali and his Venezuelan counterpart turned out to be a big win for Guyana. For one thing, the agreements reached between the parties did not in any shape or form interfere with the ICJ process as articulated by President Ali. Another important outcome was the fact that it has seemingly put to rest, at least for now, any lingering threat of military incursions by Venezuela on Guyana’s territory.
The objectives of the engagement were largely realized, namely a de-escalation of tension and the Caribbean remaining a zone of peace. Credit must be given to President Ali for his wise and robust leadership and the political maturity he displayed at the meeting. Indeed, President Ali has earned the respect of all Guyanese, regional leaders and the entire international community for the firm but composed manner in which he handled the talks.
The international spotlight is now on Guyana which is seen as rules-based and playing by the norms of international law in relation to the border controversy. Never before in our recent history has there been so much interest by the international media on Guyana. In all of this, Guyana is emerging as a rising star in the galaxy of nations. Guyana’s sovereignty and territorial integrity has received support from people all across the world.
Guyana is undoubtedly on the right side of history and it is only a question of time before the border controversy will be resolved in our favour by the International Court of Justice.
Sincerely,
Hydar Ally