Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro requested a meeting with Guyana’s President, Dr. Irfaan Ali, but Guyanese Vice President Dr. Bharrat Jagdeo confirmed there are no plans to pursue such a meeting at this time. This development follows a Venezuelan naval incursion and growing concerns over territorial disputes, prompting Guyana to seek legal redress through the ICJ.
Recently, Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro expressed a desire for a face-to-face meeting with Dr. Irfaan Ali, the President of Guyana. However, Guyana’s Vice President, Dr. Bharrat Jagdeo, indicated that currently, there are no plans to accept this request, emphasizing that such a meeting would require a thorough evaluation of its implications for national security and interests.
This call for a meeting follows recent provocations, specifically a Venezuelan naval incursion into Guyana’s waters, which escalated tensions between the two nations. The incursion on March 1, 2025, was met with significant disapproval not only from Guyana but also from its regional and international allies, prompting Guyana to formally protest.
In light of the ongoing tension, Guyana has petitioned the International Court of Justice (ICJ) for provisional measures, particularly due to Venezuela’s plans to conduct elections on May 25, which coincides with Guyana’s 59th Independence Day. This election seeks to appoint officials for the disputed Essequibo region and is perceived as a challenge to Guyana’s territorial claims.
Additionally, Vice President Jagdeo noted that President Ali is presently in the United States engaging with senior US officials. On the same day, US Ambassador to Guyana, Nicole Theriot, reiterated America’s firm support for Guyana in light of the recent Venezuelan actions.
In summary, the request for a meeting between Presidents Maduro and Ali is currently unaccepted by Guyana’s government amid ongoing tensions. Guyana protests against Venezuelan actions, including a recent naval incursion, and seeks legal measures to protect its territorial integrity. The situation remains complex as both nations navigate their diplomatic relations, while Guyana secures support from international allies, particularly the United States.
Original Source: newsroom.gy
