The Organization of American States (OAS) has expressed its worry and concern over the aggressive stance of the Maduro regime of Venezuela towards Guyana, which has escalated to a point of significant concern for regional security and constitutes a matter that threatens the stability and territorial sovereignty within the hemisphere.

In a statement on the issue, the international body said it is imperative to recall that the boundary established in 1899 by an international Arbitration Committee is in force and legally binding on all parties under international law.

“This award is currently reinforced by proceedings and decisions at the International Court of Justice (ICJ). These proceedings were mandated by the United Nations Secretary General in accordance with the terms of a 1966 agreement signed in Geneva by representatives of the governments of Venezuela and Guyana”, the OAS noted.

The OAS also said the Maduro regime is continuing to take and promote unlawful actions against Guyana, such as conducting an illegal and illegitimate referendum on December 3, 2023, by which it seeks to annex the Essequibo region. The action, the OAS noted, was taken not only in flagrant disregard for international law and decisions of the ICJ but also, with an undemocratic use of democratic processes.

The Venezuelan regime had already pursued other aggressive actions before the referendum, including several incidents and acts of intimidation, the OAS noted, and added that the actions have escalated and now the violations of the recent decision of the International Court of Justice are flagrant.

“The recent actions taken by the regime in Venezuela not only jeopardize the development and stability of Guyana, but also pose a broader risk to the security of Latin America and the Caribbean – a situation that has been repeatedly condemned by the Caribbean Community (CARICOM)”, the statement said.

The General Secretariat of the OAS has reaffirmed and endorses the request for a meeting of the OAS Permanent Council as soon as possible. This meeting would aim to discuss possible measures to mitigate this crisis and explore solutions that respect international law and regional stability.

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