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CARICOM is of the opinion that the Government of the Bolivarian Republic of Venezuela’s adoption of “the Organic Law for the Defence of Guyana Essequiba” on April 3, 2024, has led to an unacceptable increase in tensions between Venezuela and the Cooperative Republic of Guyana.

It has also threatened to undermine peace and security in both Latin America and the Caribbean.

By adopting “the Organic Law,” the Venezuelan Government has acted unilaterally and in a potentially dangerous manner, thereby offending the “Joint Declaration of Argyle for Dialogue and Peace between Guyana and Venezuela” of December 14, 2023.

Furthermore, it has subverted international law and signaled the possible use of aggression to achieve its own goals.

CARICOM recognizes that Venezuela and Guyana have differing perspectives on border issues, consequential matters, and specific modes for their resolution.

However, both countries have agreed that these issues and consequential matters should be resolved peacefully and in accordance with international law and its relevant mechanisms, including the 1966 Geneva Agreement.

Moreover, CARICOM acknowledges Guyana’s right to pursue its claim through the International Court of Justice (ICJ).

At the same time, each country has renounced the use or threatened use of violence in the pursuit of their respective claims or interests.

CARICOM, therefore, urges the Bolivarian Republic of Venezuela to avoid any further actions that could hinder regional and hemispheric peace and stability. Dialogue and adherence to international law are the only viable means of achieving a just and lasting settlement of the issues at hand.

 The alternatives are too dreadful to contemplate. Similarly, we demand patience, calmness, and an end to any possible unilateral, aggressive actions.