CELAC President Pro-Tempore Announces Historic Agreement Between Guyana and Venezuela

Published on December 15, 2023 by Kevz Politics

The President Pro-Tempore of the Community of Latin American and Caribbean States (CELAC), Dr. Ralph Gonsalves, who is also the Prime Minister of St Vincent and the Grenadines, made a groundbreaking announcement today. He read the Argyle Declaration for Dialogue and Peace between Guyana and Venezuela, signifying a significant step towards resolving their long-standing border dispute.

The Argyle Declaration, named after the Argyle International Airport in St Vincent and the Grenadines, was signed by representatives from both Guyana and Venezuela. The declaration outlines a commitment to peaceful dialogue and a pledge to refrain from using force or threats against one another.

Under this historic agreement:

• Both countries have agreed to resolve their border dispute through peaceful means, emphasizing diplomacy and dialogue.
• They have committed to not use or threaten to use force, directly or indirectly, against each other.
• They will work towards maintaining a peaceful and stable region, fostering cooperation and mutual understanding.
• Both parties will establish a framework for ongoing discussions, aimed at finding a lasting solution to their border issue.

This declaration marks a significant turning point in the relationship between Guyana and Venezuela. For decades, the two countries have been engaged in a territorial dispute over the Essequibo region, a resource-rich area covering around two-thirds of Guyana’s territory.

The dispute dates back to the early 19th century when Venezuela contested the validity of an 1899 arbitral award that demarcated the border between the two nations. Despite numerous attempts at resolution, tensions have persisted over the years.

The Argyle Declaration represents a genuine effort from both sides to find a peaceful and diplomatic solution. It acknowledges the importance of maintaining regional stability and fostering cooperation among neighboring countries.

The announcement has been met with cautious optimism from the international community. Regional organizations, such as the Organization of American States (OAS) and the Caribbean Community (CARICOM), have welcomed the agreement and expressed their support for the ongoing dialogue between Guyana and Venezuela.

Observers believe that this development could have far-reaching implications beyond the immediate border dispute. It sets a positive precedent for resolving other territorial conflicts in the region through peaceful means, emphasizing diplomacy over aggression.

As the President Pro-Tempore of CELAC, Dr. Ralph Gonsalves has played a crucial role in facilitating this agreement. His leadership and commitment to regional cooperation have been instrumental in bringing both parties to the negotiating table.

The Argyle Declaration for Dialogue and Peace provides renewed hope for the people of Guyana and Venezuela. It represents a significant step towards resolving their long-standing border dispute and fostering a more peaceful and cooperative region.

Sources:
https://twitter.com/KevzPolitics/status/1735474562618257539

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#BREAKING – CELAC President Pro-Tempore & PM of St Vincent & the Grenadines Dr Ralph Gonsalves reads the Argyle Declaration for Dialogue and Peace between Guyana & Venezuela.

– Guyana & Venezuela agree to not directly or indirectly, threaten or use force against one another
-… pic.twitter.com/S3R8l2jFs4

— Kevz Politics (@KevzPolitics) December 15, 2023

Source

@KevzPolitics said #BREAKING – CELAC President Pro-Tempore & PM of St Vincent & the Grenadines Dr Ralph Gonsalves reads the Argyle Declaration for Dialogue and Peace between Guyana & Venezuela. – Guyana & Venezuela agree to not directly or indirectly, threaten or use force against one another -… twitter.com/i/web/status/1…

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