Vice President Dr. Bharrat Jagdeo stated there are no current plans for a meeting between Guyana’s President Dr. Irfaan Ali and Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro. This comes amid ongoing tensions following a Venezuelan naval incursion into Guyana’s territory and Maduro’s announcement of elections in a disputed region. Jagdeo emphasized the national security considerations in assessing any meeting.
Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro recently expressed a desire for a meeting with Guyana’s President, Dr. Irfaan Ali. However, Vice President Dr. Bharrat Jagdeo announced that there are no immediate plans to consider this request due to ongoing evaluations of national security interests and the agenda for such a meeting. This statement was made during a press conference at the People’s Progressive Party Civic Headquarters in Freedom House.
Maduro’s request coincided with heightened tensions following a Venezuelan naval incursion and ongoing aggression towards Guyana’s Essequibo region. The incursion on March 1, 2025, elicited strong condemnation from both regional and international communities.
In light of these tensions, Guyana has sought provisional measures from the International Court of Justice following Venezuela’s announcement of elections on May 25, which many view as a challenge to Guyana’s territorial claims and a distraction from its Independence Day celebrations on May 26.
Additionally, Vice President Jagdeo noted that President Ali is currently in the United States for discussions with senior US officials. On Thursday, US Ambassador to Guyana, Nicole Theriot, reiterated strong US support for Guyana amid these escalating tensions.
The recent call for a meeting between Presidents Maduro and Ali underscores the ongoing tensions between Venezuela and Guyana. The absence of immediate plans for a meeting reflects a cautious approach by Guyana as they navigate national security concerns. Furthermore, Guyana’s actions to seek legal recourse through the International Court of Justice highlight the seriousness with which they are addressing Venezuela’s aggressive stance in the region.
Original Source: newsroom.gy
