MercoPress. South Atlantic News Agency

Guyana celebrates 59th Independence Day with steadfast support from Caricom in the face of Venezuelan bullying

Dr. Carla Barnett reaffirmed CARICOM’s steadfast support for Guyana’s sovereignty and territorial integrity threatened by neighboring Venezuela.

As Guyana celebrated its 59th Independence anniversary on Monday May 26, the Caribbean Community, CARICOM, commended the nation for its rapid development, strong environmental stewardship and growing influence on the international stage.

In a congratulatory message addressed to President Dr. Mohamed Irfaan Ali, CARICOM Secretary-General Dr. Carla Barnett praised Guyana’s “significant developmental progress” amid its continued protection of the country’s vast natural ecosystems.

And on the matter of Guyana’s border controversy with Venezuela, But Dr. Barnett also reaffirmed CARICOM’s steadfast support for Guyana’s sovereignty and territorial integrity in the matter of its border encroachment by neighboring Venezuela.

Secretary-General Dr. Barnett highlighted Guyana’s position as one of the world’s fastest-growing economies, largely driven by its petroleum sector. “Notably, this has been achieved even while ensuring the protection of the country’s extensive natural eco-systems”.

The Secretary-General also acknowledged Guyana’s diplomatic contributions, especially its current non-permanent membership on the United Nations Security Council. She praised the country’s “strong commitment to upholding international law and ensuring that the voice of the Caribbean contributes to shaping the discourse on global security.”

Dr. Barnett said the region looks forward to Guyana’s upcoming presidency of the Security Council, particularly as the country continues to advocate for regional priorities such as climate change and the crisis in Haiti.

Within CARICOM, Guyana continues to play a leading role as headquarters of the regional body and in key areas such as agriculture and food security. As the lead head in the CARICOM Quasi-Cabinet on Agriculture, Agricultural Diversification and Food Security, Guyana has spearheaded efforts to reduce the region’s food import bill by 25% by 2030 — progress Dr. Barnett said has already yielded results.

She also acknowledged Guyana’s ongoing work in regional transportation, digital education and training, and Prime Minister Irfaan Ali’s personal role in chairing the Prime Ministerial Sub-Committee on Cricket.

On the matter of Guyana’s Esequibo region, a third of the country’s total area, claimed by Venezuela, Dr. Barnett reaffirmed CARICOM’s support for Guyana’s sovereignty and territorial integrity. “The border controversy with Venezuela remains of perennial concern. You may be assured that CARICOM is steadfast in its support,” she said.