Suriname has issued a formal protest to Guyana following President Irfaan Ali’s announcement regarding the development of an airstrip in the disputed Tigri area. The Foreign Affairs Minister, Albert Ramdin, emphasized the importance of respecting territorial agreements made during past negotiations and expressed concerns over actions taken without Suriname’s permission.
Suriname’s Foreign Affairs Minister, Albert Ramdin, officially lodged a protest with Guyana over its recent intentions to develop the contentious Tigri area, which lies on the border between the two nations. This escalation follows statements by Guyana’s President, Irfaan Ali, regarding plans to upgrade an airstrip at Camp Tigri, provoking concerns from Suriname regarding jurisdiction and sovereignty. Ramdin summoned the Guyanese ambassador, Virjanand Depoo, to deliver the protest note, expressing apprehension about actions taken in the disputed territory without Suriname’s consent.
The situation highlights the ongoing tensions surrounding the Upper Corantijn River area, as previous indications of infrastructure development off Kasjoe Island were also raised. Ramdin underscored that such public statements by Guyana could disturb the amicable relations intended by both countries, recalling commitments made under the Chaguaramas Agreement in 1970, which emphasized mutual respect for territories.
This dispute traces back to historical conflicts, particularly the military engagement in 1969 when Guyanese forces took control of the region while Suriname was still a part of the Kingdom of the Netherlands. Although efforts were made in 1970 to mediate the dispute, including an agreement to withdraw troop presence, Guyana has yet to honor that commitment, thereby continuing its claims and occupation of the New River Triangle.
The border conflict between Suriname and Guyana predominantly revolves around the Tigri area or New River Triangle, a region characterized by dense forests and significant historical tensions. Following the independence of Suriname in 1975, the territorial disputes escalated particularly after the Guyana Defence Force seized the area in 1969. Mediation attempts in subsequent years have only yielded limited results, and the issues remain unresolved, affecting bilateral relations significantly.
In summary, Suriname’s recent diplomatic protest underscores the heightened tensions between it and Guyana regarding territorial claims in the disputed Tigri area. As both nations navigate their delicate relationship, previous agreements and historical context highlight the complexity of resolving such disputes peacefully while attempts at infrastructural development continue to ignite concerns of sovereignty and jurisdiction.
Original Source: www.jamaicaobserver.com
