CARICOM on Tuesday affirmed that community platforms and engagements should not be used, directly or indirectly, to advance or appear to legitimise territorial claims currently before the International Court of Justice (ICJ), amid concerns over their display during recent official engagements.
In a statement, the Caribbean Community said it had taken note of recent official engagements within the bloc during which material asserting a territorial claim was displayed. It also acknowledged a letter from Guyana’s President, Mohamed Irfaan Ali, raising concern over the matter.
In an April 28 letter, Ali said Acting President Delcy Rodríguez had showcased imagery during official engagements in CARICOM member states, warning that it risked being interpreted as acceptance of the claim in question.
Rodríguez was seen wearing a brooch displaying a map including the disputed territory during visits to Grenada and Barbados.
In his letter, Ali described the actions as “calculated and provocative”, adding that they undermine confidence in commitments to international law and a peaceful resolution.
The bloc reaffirmed that Member States retain the sovereign right to conduct bilateral relations with external partners, but stressed that such engagements must remain consistent with obligations under the Revised Treaty of Chaguaramas and broader Community commitments.
CARICOM said those obligations include preserving the integrity and cohesion of the Community in external relations, as well as upholding international law, judicial processes, and good neighbourly relations.
It reiterated its “longstanding and unequivocal” support for Guyana’s sovereignty and territorial integrity, and its backing of a peaceful resolution of the border controversy through the ICJ.
The organisation added that Member States, while exercising sovereign rights, must remain mindful of their collective responsibilities under the Treaty framework.
CARICOM reaffirmed its commitment to unity, the rule of law, and the peaceful settlement of disputes in accordance with international law.
