Vice President Dr Bharrat Jagdeo has delivered a solid cautionary message, asserting that any attempt to violate Guyana’s borders, including by criminal elements, will be met with resolute action by the country’s security forces.
Speaking at a recent press conference, Jagdeo emphasized Guyana’s non-recognition of any extension to the Venezuelan map, stating that such acknowledgment would challenge the integrity of the 1899 Arbitral Award. This historic agreement delineated the borders between the two nations.
Regarding incursions by illegal groups, Jagdeo highlighted the preparedness of Guyana’s security forces, underscoring the government’s commitment to maintaining sovereignty and safeguarding territorial integrity. He categorically labelled any incursion, including those by criminal gangs, as illegal, emphasizing the government’s vigilant monitoring of the situation.
“Our position is that it’s illegal. What he has done is illegal, but it is not unpredictable because they’ve always had this area as part of their map. We know what our borders are and any incursion by anyone, including criminal gangs will be dealt with by our security forces. We are watching this carefully,” the Vice President told media operatives.
Recognizing the diverse composition of migrants, Jagdeo noted that Guyana is taking measures to address the evolving situation. He expressed the government’s alertness to individuals with ill intentions toward the country, emphasizing the ongoing scrutiny by security forces to counter any potential threats.
“The majority of the migrants here who have come, they’re peace-loving people. Many of them are Guyanese, but there could be people here who have ill intent on our country. We’re not turning a blind eye to that too. Our security forces are looking at that. We’re looking at every possible threat to our country and our people.”
In the face of Venezuela’s recent referendum, despite the International Court of Justice’s (ICJ) ruling, Jagdeo highlighted Guyana’s diplomatic efforts. The country has engaged with Caricom, the Organisation of American States (OAS), the Commonwealth, and numerous bilateral partners, including the United States, Brazil, the United Kingdom, and France.
Dr Jagdeo mentioned the United States Southern Command’s (USSOUTHCOM) “flight operations” in Guyana, emphasizing collaboration in disaster preparedness, aerial and maritime security, and countering transnational criminal organizations. This joint effort aims to enhance security partnerships and strengthen regional cooperation between the United States and Guyana.
President Dr Irfaan Ali and Vice-President Jagdeo fully control the diplomatic manoeuvres. The meeting between Dr. Irfaan Ali and Nicolas Maduro in St. Vincent and the Grenadines will be attended by other heads of state and the United Nations delegates. The Guyana government has clarified that they will abide by the ICJ rulings.
Vedan Choolun. London, UK