Prime Minister Dr. Ralph Gonsalves of St Vincent and the Grenadines has called for restraint, dialogue, and calm as tensions simmer between Trinidad and Tobago and Venezuela following a recent maritime incident that has drawn regional attention.

Speaking at a press conference on Monday, Prime Minister Gonsalves urged both governments to prioritize diplomacy and peaceful engagement after Venezuelan authorities detained several Trinidadian fishermen and their vessels, sparking concern and anxiety in Port of Spain. The incident, which occurred in disputed waters off the coast of Trinidad, has reignited longstanding issues over maritime boundaries and fishing rights between the neighboring countries.

“Now is not the time for inflammatory rhetoric or escalation. We must all work together to ensure that peace and good neighborliness prevail in our region,” Gonsalves stated. He emphasized the importance of dialogue and mutual respect, noting that both Trinidad and Tobago and Venezuela share deep historical, cultural, and economic ties that should not be jeopardized by isolated incidents.

The St Vincent leader, who currently serves as the pro tempore president of the Community of Latin American and Caribbean States (CELAC), said he had been in contact with both governments and offered to facilitate discussions if needed. He also called on other Caribbean Community (CARICOM) leaders to support efforts to de-escalate the situation and protect the interests of all parties involved.

Prime Minister Gonsalves highlighted the need for a balanced approach that respects national sovereignty while upholding international law and human rights. He urged the media and the public to avoid speculation and sensationalism, warning that such actions could inflame tensions further.

As diplomatic efforts continue, families of the detained fishermen remain hopeful for a swift and peaceful resolution. Regional observers say the incident underscores the importance of clear communication, cooperation, and established protocols to manage disputes in the Caribbean’s shared waters.

With both governments signaling a willingness to engage in talks, Prime Minister Gonsalves’s call for peace and calm has resonated across the region, reinforcing the Caribbean’s longstanding tradition of resolving conflicts through dialogue and mutual understanding.