The Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GCCI) strongly condemns the incursion of Guyana’s Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ) by a Venezuelan naval vessel. This threat to our country’s sovereign territory must be rejected and such acts of aggression must not be allowed to continue with impunity. Â
The Chamber urges all nations and international organisations to reject these threats to the region’s security and stability. Venezuela’s rejection of this long-established international boundary—which was determined by the 1899 Arbitral Award—is currently before the International Court of Justice. This continuous escalation of aggressions and threats by the Bolivarian Republic of Venezuela only serves to destroy the peace enjoyed in the region.Â
The GCCI will support the Government of Guyana in any measures taken to protect the country’s sovereign territory. It is also imperative that citizens maintain unity in condemning these actions and reject narratives that aim to usurp our territorial integrity. The Essequibo region belongs to Guyana, and the Chamber affirms that it is Guyana’s right to occupy its 83,000 square miles and EEZ. Â
