The Guyana Defence Force (GDF) has reaffirmed its commitment to safeguarding the nation’s sovereignty and territorial integrity against persistent and unscrupulous threats. This pledge was made by Chief-of-Defence-Staff, Brigadier Omar Khan, during the Annual Officers’ Conference at Base Camp Ayanganna in Georgetown.
Brigadier Khan expressed confidence in the GDF’s capability to fulfill its defense mandate, emphasizing the importance of being alert to threats and defending Guyana’s territory. He highlighted the dangers posed by an increasingly unstable neighboring country that continues to make claims on Guyana’s territory. “We – the men and women in uniform of the Guyana Defence Force – have remained vigilant, and will continue to do so,” he assured.
In his role as Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces, President Dr. Irfaan Ali also urged the GDF to maintain vigilance in protecting the nation’s borders. He stressed the need for Guyana to defend its sovereignty while pursuing peaceful resolutions through the International Court of Justice (ICJ). The President noted that as transnational threats evolve, the GDF must be prepared to respond effectively.
President Ali emphasized the importance of military diplomacy, advocating for the strengthening of partnerships with regional allies and the international community. He commended the officers stationed at Guyana’s borders for their sacrifices and commitment to national defense, underscoring that their efforts should never be overlooked.
Recent tensions have arisen due to Venezuela’s aggressive stance towards Guyana amid a border dispute currently under review by the World Court. Notably, Venezuela has constructed a bridge connecting its mainland to Ankoko Island, an area claimed by both nations, where it has established a military base.
In response to these developments, Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation Minister Hugh Todd met with Venezuelan Ambassador Carlos Amador Perez Silva in December 2024 to discuss Venezuela’s actions at the border. Guyana formally protested the construction of the bridge and reiterated its stance on the sovereignty of Ankoko Island, which is divided under the 1899 Arbitral Award and the 1905 Boundary Agreement.
The Guyana Government continues to assert that Venezuela’s military activities east of the boundary line violate its sovereignty and international law. The ICJ has been approached to seek a final ruling on the matter, with Guyana emphasizing the legitimacy of the 1899 Arbitral Award in its submissions to the court.
As of December 2024, Guyana has provided its final written reply to Venezuela’s counter-memorial, asserting that Venezuela’s claims lack merit. The next steps in the ICJ process include Venezuela’s opportunity to respond with a Rejoinder by August 8, 2025, after which the court is expected to schedule oral hearings for the case.
