The United Nations General Assembly was informed by President Irfaan Ali this afternoon that despite the border controversy with Venezuela being before the International Court, Guyana continues to face aggression and threats from Venezuela.

In his address to the 80th session of the UN General Assembly in New York, the President said although the threats by Venezuela have been ongoing for decades, Caracas has taken several actions in recent times to intensify its aggression.

He reminded the General Assembly that although the International Court of Justice (ICJ) has twice affirmed its jurisdiction, and has also issued provisional measures ordering Venezuela to refrain from altering the status quo, the neighbouring country persists with unilateral laws and threats of annexation, which violates international law, the UN Charter, and the principles that sustain global order.  

“If the rights of the small states can be trampled upon and legally binding orders ignored, what protection remains for any nation under international law? Yet, Guyana, continues to repose confidence in international law. For us, the principle of sovereignty, territorial integrity and non- interference are non-negotiable,” the President said.

The President also said Guyana’s participation at the International Court of Justice, is testament to the country’s commitment to have the border issue settled in a peaceful manner, adding that the country will not be intimidated.

“We will not cower to coercion, intimidation, or unilateral actions, we thank our international partners and allies for their solidarity,” the President said.

The President said the United Nations must remain firm in its position on aggression globally.

“If the UN is to remain humanity’s best hope, it must stand firm against aggression and remain fully engaged with the great questions of our time. We must be bold in recognizing the necessity for institutional adjustments that will advance the organization’s success’, Ali said.

President Ali also used his address to highlight issues related to food security, climate change and poverty, but most importantly said the time has come for frank discussions on matters relating to the situation in Haiti and ending the embargo on Cuba, saying that those countries deserve peace and stability.

Related posts:

Guyana replies to Venezuela’s “falsehoods” at UN General Assembly President calls global attention to Venezuela’s latest claim to Essequibo in UN General Assembly address President meets UNASUR Secretary General and raises Venezuela’s threats Guyana will not condone Venezuela’s threats against investors in Guyana’s territory -Pres. Granger