Venezuela border controversy: Private sector lauds political maturity following Govt, Opposition meeting

…says united front critical for maintaining Guyana’s sovereignty

The Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GCCI) and the Guyana Manufacturing and Services Association (GMSA), have both lauded the government and opposition’s united front on the border controversy between Guyana and Venezuela.
On Tuesday, the government and parliamentary Opposition met to discuss the Guyana/Venezuela border controversy at the Office of the President. Following the meeting between the two sides, a joint statement had been issued which rejected Venezuela’s sabre rattling. In a statement of its own on Wednesday, the GCCI lauded the political maturity of the two main political groups.
According to the GCCI, this unified front is critical for maintaining Guyana’s sovereignty. According to the chamber, these talks are a demonstration of the political maturity and leadership required.
“The GCCI believes that this unified front is a critical underpinning for ensuring the maintenance of the territorial integrity of Guyana. These talks demonstrate a degree of political maturity and leadership that is required to navigate these circumstances. The Chamber calls for all Guyanese to show support and unify for this cause.”W
“The maintenance of our Guyana must be of paramount importance. The GCCI will continue to support efforts being made in this arena and believes that the right course is being charted by our leaders,” the chamber further said.
Also issuing a statement was the Guyana Manufacturing and Services Association (GMSA), in which they recognized the commitment of the two political sides to resist Venezuela. Further, they were appreciative of the international community’s support of Guyana against Venezuela and the message of non-tolerance for aggression it sent.
“The GMSA recognizes that the unity of these two political parties is beneficial for the country and its citizens. Their joint statement reaffirms their commitment to safeguarding Guyana’s interests and ensuring a peaceful and prosperous future for all Guyanese citizens. President Ali and Opposition Leader Norton have demonstrated their commitment to fighting Venezuela’s relentless attempts to undermine Guyana ‘s development.”
“The association also appreciates the international community’s support in condemning Venezuela’s actions and standing in solidarity with Guyana. This support further strengthens the country’s position and sends a clear message that any aggression towards Guyana will not be tolerated,” they further explained.
Following the meeting between the Dr. Irfaan Ali led People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C) government and the A Partnership for National Unity/Alliance For Change (APNU/AFC) opposition, a joint statement on the discussions was issued. The two sides agreed on the importance of a vigorous and comprehensive public relations programme.
Other agreed positions between the two sides during the meeting are that no country has the right to seize or annex any territory in another state; acknowledgement of the international support being received by Guyana and an agreement between President Ali and the Opposition Leader, to keep in close contact on the border controversy.
President Ali was accompanied in the meeting by Prime Minister, Brigadier (retired) Mark Phillips, Vice President Bharrat Jagdeo, Minister of Parliamentary Affairs and Governance Gail Teixeira and Minister of Foreign Affairs Hugh Todd.
Meanwhile, Leader of the Opposition Aubrey Norton was accompanied by Members of Parliament Khemraj Ramrattan, Amanza Walton Desir, Geeta Chandon-Edmond, Tabitha Sarabo Halley and Ambassador Ronald Austin CCH, Adviser.
Following the meeting, the parliamentary opposition in an interview with the media described the meeting as a success. Norton informed the media that Guyana is on the right track by making its case to the International Court of Justice (ICJ) and thus, must stay on that track. He attributed Venezuela’s posturing to the country trying to sway Guyana away from a final judgment from the ICJ.
The National Electoral Council of Venezuela had issued five questions to be asked in the national referendum scheduled for December 3, 2023. All of the questions are intended to further Venezuela’s unlawful and unfounded claim to more than two-thirds of Guyana’s national territory.
However, the last question is particularly pernicious, according to the Guyana Government, as it brazenly seeks the approval of the Venezuelan people of the creation of a new Venezuelan State consisting of Guyana’s Essequibo region. (G3)