The Embassy

Who we are

Learn about our Mission

The mission of the Embassy of Guyana in Caracas is to enhance the social, cultural, and economic connections between Guyana and Venezuela. We are dedicated to fostering cooperation in trade, investment, and cultural exchange, while promoting peace and stability in the region. Our Embassy is committed to serving our citizens and the diaspora with efficiency, courtesy, and a deep respect for the rich history that binds our nations together.

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UN Security Council

Our History

Guyana–Venezuela relations include diplomatic, economic and other interactions between the neighboring countries of the Co-operative Republic of Guyana and the Bolivarian Republic of Venezuela.

Early 19th Century: Background
British Guiana (now Guyana) establishes control over the disputed territory.
Quote: Simon Bolívar (Venezuelan Liberator) expresses dissatisfaction with the territorial claims, marking the beginning of the dispute.
1835
1899: Paris Arbitral Award
The arbitral tribunal in Paris rules in favor of British Guiana's claim over the disputed territory.
Quote: Venezuelan President Cipriano Castro states: “We reject the Paris Award, which we believe to be unjust and biased against Venezuela.”
1899
1966: Geneva Agreement
February 17, 1966: The Geneva Agreement is signed, establishing a framework for resolving the dispute.
Quote: Venezuelan Foreign Minister Ignacio Andrade: “We are committed to resolving this issue through dialogue and peaceful means.”
Quote: British Foreign Secretary Michael Stewart: “The Agreement provides a fair process for both nations to address their differences.”
1966
1969: Boundary Dispute Escalation
Venezuela protests against British Guiana’s exploration activities in the disputed area.
Quote: Venezuelan Foreign Minister Rafael Caldera: “Venezuela will not tolerate any activities in the disputed area that infringe upon its territorial claims.”
1969
1970: Protocol of Puerto España
June 18, 1970: The Protocol is signed to continue discussions and resolve the dispute.
Quote: Guyana’s Foreign Minister: “The Protocol reaffirms our commitment to a peaceful resolution in line with the Geneva Agreement.”
Quote: Venezuelan Foreign Minister Aristides Calvani: “We are hopeful that the Protocol will lead to a resolution that respects our sovereignty.”
1970
1980s: Increasing Tensions
1980s: Increased diplomatic tensions as Venezuela claims the area is under illegal occupation.
Quote: Venezuelan President Luis Herrera Campíns: “The illegal occupation of our territory by Guyana must be addressed through international mediation.”
1980s
1990: Guyana's International Advocacy
1990: Guyana seeks international support for its position on the dispute.
Quote: Guyana’s Foreign Minister Shridath Ramphal: “Guyana’s position is justified by international law and the principles agreed upon in the Geneva Agreement.”
1990
2004: Joint Declaration
2004: Both countries agree to continue negotiations and maintain peace.
Quote: Guyana’s President Bharrat Jagdeo: “We are committed to pursuing a peaceful resolution through continued dialogue and adherence to international agreements.”
Quote: Venezuelan President Hugo Chávez: “Venezuela is open to dialogue and is committed to finding a peaceful solution.”
2004
2018: ICJ Proceedings
2018: The International Court of Justice (ICJ) begins hearings on the dispute.
Quote: Guyana’s Attorney General Basil Williams: “The ICJ provides a neutral and legally binding avenue for resolving this longstanding dispute.”
Quote: Venezuelan Foreign Minister Jorge Arreaza: “Venezuela questions the jurisdiction of the ICJ in this matter and seeks alternative avenues for resolution.”
2018
2023: Joint Declaration of Argyle
December 14, 2023: The Joint Declaration of Argyle is signed to facilitate dialogue.
Quote: Guyana’s President Irfaan Ali: “We are committed to continuing our dialogue under international frameworks to achieve a peaceful resolution.”
Quote: Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro: “Venezuela reaffirms its position while engaging in dialogue to address and resolve the dispute.”
2023