THE Caribbean Community (Caricom) has citied the Revised Treaty of Chaguaramas and warned that member states must preserve regional integrity and cohesion in their external engagements.
Caricom issued a statement yesterday responding to a complaint from Guyanese President Dr Irfaan Ali about Venezuelan acting President Delcy Rodriguez wearing a brooch which featured a map of Venezuela and Essequibo during her visits to both Barbados and Grenada.
Caricom said the Treaty-its binding legal framework-defines not only the objectives of the Community but also the standard of conduct expected of its member states.
It emphasised that while countries retain the sovereign right to pursue bilateral relations with external partners, such engagements must be consistent with the Community’s collective commitments and obligations under the Treaty.
Caricom acknowledged the concerns raised by Guyana and reiterated that, in exercising their sovereign rights, member states must remain mindful of their responsibilities to uphold international law, respect judicial processes, and maintain good neighbourly relations.
Caricom further issued a clear caution that Community platforms and engagements should not be used—whether directly or indirectly—to advance or appear to legitimise claims that are the subject of ongoing judicial proceedings.
“The Community’s long-standing and unequivocal support for the sovereignty and territorial integrity of Guyana, and for the peaceful resolution of the controversy through the Court remains firm and unchanged,” the statement said.
Caricom further stressed that any perception that regional forums are being used to promote territorial claims could undermine both the judicial process and the unity of the bloc.
The body reaffirmed its commitment to unity, the rule of law, and the peaceful settlement of disputes, signalling that adherence to the Treaty and respect for international legal mechanisms remain central to the Community’s approach as tensions over the Essequibo issue continue to unfold.
