Any action by Venezuela is an attack on economy, business – Private Sector

– reiterates ICJ’s decision must be upheld

Guyana’s Essequibo county is the backbone that drives the country’s economy and any action by Venezuela to forcibly annex this vast piece of resource-filled land will plunge the country into unsustainability.
Chairman of the Services subsector at the Guyana Manufacturing and Services Association (GMSA), Dr Carl Niamatali made these remarks at the National Stakeholder Forum for Civil Society Engagement on the Venezuela/Guyana Border Controversy on Friday.
He added that any action by Venezuela is an attack on business. This was supported by the simple example of the Eugene F Correia International Airport, which would not be viable without the Essequibo.
The private sector official underlined, “Any action by Venezuela is not just an attack on our land. It is an attack on the economy, business, and our way of life. Essequibo, with its small population, is not the market but Essequibo is the means.”
On behalf of the Association, he zeroed in that action on the physical landscape of the county of Essequibo fundamentally alters the way of life in every part of the country for Guyanese.

Dr Niamatali underscored, “An Essequibo-less Guyana will be plunged into poverty and unsustainability by the loss of the protection and the valuable resources it provides. We have to fight for Essequibo because every day, Essequibo fights for us and provides for us.”
Meanwhile, the Private Sector Commission (PSC) stated that the decision of the International Court of Justice (ICJ) underscores the importance of upholding the rule of law and respecting international agreements to ensure a peaceful resolution of territorial disputes.
“We commend the ICJ’s unanimous decision, clearly articulating that, pending a final judgement, Venezuela must refrain from taking any actions that would alter the current situation in the disputed territory. This territory, where Guyana administers and exercises control over the Essequibo region, is subject to the binding ruling on Venezuela as a signatory to both the UN Charter and the Statute of the Court,” the PSC penned in a statement.
As the private sector, the commission underscored the importance of respecting international law, as it provides a framework for peaceful coexistence and dispute resolution. It contended that the principles outlined in the Arbitral Award of October 3, 1899, must be upheld to maintain the status quo in the Essequibo region.
“We urge the Government of Venezuela to comply strictly with the ICJ’s order, refraining from any actions that may jeopardise the peaceful administration and control exercised by Guyana over the Essequibo region. It is our firm belief that adherence to international law is crucial for fostering stability and promoting economic development in the region.”
The private sector body recommitted to supporting the Government’s efforts in pursuing a peaceful and legal resolution to this territorial dispute through established international mechanisms, such as the ICJ.
“We believe that diplomatic channels, guided by the principles of justice and the rule of law, are essential for resolving disputes between nations. Furthermore, we call upon the international community, particularly our sister countries in Caricom and the broader global community, to continue supporting the principles of justice and international law in relation to the controversy over Guyana’s border with Venezuela. The solidarity of the international community serves as a powerful force in upholding the United Nations Charter and ensuring the peaceful settlement of disputes.”
The Private Sector Commission maintained optimism that, through diplomatic dialogue and a steadfast commitment to international legal norms, a fair and enduring resolution to this dispute will be attained. We eagerly anticipate a comprehensive and definitive settlement by the International Court of Justice (ICJ) to bring about a conclusive end to the matter.
(Rupa Seenaraine)