The Guyana Oil and Gas Energy Chamber (GOGEC) has strongly criticised the display of a map at the Suriname Energy, Oil and Gas Summit (SEOGS) 2026, which incorrectly portrayed the New River Triangle—a region that forms part of Guyana’s sovereign territory—as belonging to Suriname.
In a statement issued on Wednesday, GOGEC President Manniram Prashad described the incident as deeply troubling and unacceptable, emphasising that international industry events should ensure the accuracy and respect in the presentation of geographical and territorial information.
Representing a broad cross-section of stakeholders across Guyana’s energy industry, GOGEC emphasised that global conferences and investment gatherings have a responsibility to ensure that all maps and official materials reflect internationally recognised borders.
“The New River Triangle is and remains an integral part of the Cooperative Republic of Guyana, as affirmed by internationally recognised legal processes. Any suggestion that its status is subject to differing “beliefs” is misleading and fails to reflect the binding nature of Guyana’s sovereignty over the territory,” GOGEC said.
The chamber noted that this was not an isolated occurrence, pointing out that similar territorial inaccuracies have appeared at public events previously.
“We previously expressed our concern when foreign entities undertook similar actions, and we remain consistent in our position that Guyana’s territorial integrity must be respected at all times.”
“At a time when Guyana and Suriname are both emerging as major energy producers and working to strengthen bilateral co-operation, foster regional integration, and attract international investment, all stakeholders must exercise due diligence in presenting geographic, political, and territorial information,” GOGEC said.
According to the chamber, maintaining accurate representations of national borders is particularly important as Guyana and Suriname continue to deepen their economic ties and expand opportunities in the energy sector.
While expressing disappointment at the map shown at the summit, GOGEC reaffirmed its support for stronger relations among the neighbouring countries.
“We recognise the significant opportunities for collaboration between our two nations across energy, trade, investment, education, and private-sector development. However, such co-operation must always be grounded in mutual respect and recognition of each nation’s sovereignty,” GOGEC said.
The organisation reiterated its unwavering support for Guyana’s efforts to defend its territorial rights and national interests on the international stage.
“We stand firmly with the Government and people of Guyana to safeguard Guyana’s territorial integrity and national interests.”
“We urge organisers, presenters, and participating organisations at international events to ensure that all future materials accurately reflect Guyana’s internationally recognised borders and territorial sovereignty,” the chamber said.
GOGEC added that it will continue to champion initiatives that protect Guyana’s interests and to foster productive regional partnerships to drive investment, economic growth, and long-term development in the energy sector.