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Amid growing geopolitical tensions and complex threats in today’s world, Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation Hugh Todd made a strong call for unified action and regional solidarity during the 54th Ordinary Session of the General Assembly of the Organization of American States (OAS) in Asuncion, Paraguay.
In his address to delegates from across the Americas, Secretary Todd stressed the urgent need for coordinated efforts to address the multifaceted challenges facing the region. These include transnational crime, the impacts of climate change, territorial disputes, and economic fragility. He stressed that these threats are interconnected and that no single country can effectively manage or mitigate their impacts alone.
“Developing adequate resilience and response capabilities and strengthening our collective security must be a common goal for all Member States,” affirmed Minister Todd. He stressed the importance of leveraging regional cooperation mechanisms such as the OAS to promote dialogue and mutual understanding to address these pressing issues. Minister Todd believes that by working in unity, the Americas can better protect its people and advance the Sustainable Development Goals.
In his speech, he called for a stronger, more united OAS; one based on the principles of international law and committed to ensuring the security, sustainability, and prosperity of all its member states.
Minister Todd stressed that in the complexities of global politics, mutual respect and common interests must guide the Organization’s agenda to preserve the Americas as a zone of peace. This vision includes strengthening diplomatic channels and legal frameworks to peacefully resolve disputes and preserve territorial integrity.
Notably, Minister Todd addressed the long-standing territorial dispute between Guyana and Venezuela, reaffirming Guyana’s commitment to the principles of international law and justice. Despite an 1899 arbitration ruling that clearly demarcated the border between the two countries, Venezuela continues to lay claim to a significant portion of Guyana’s territory. Minister Todd condemned these actions as a direct challenge to Guyana’s sovereignty and regional stability.
Minister Todd reiterated Guyana’s reliance on the support of the OAS and other international bodies and highlighted the ongoing efforts to resolve the dispute peacefully. He referred to the December 1, 2023 Order of the International Court of Justice (ICJ) and the Argyle Joint Statement, both key documents guiding Guyana on the path of dialogue and peaceful resolution of the dispute with Venezuela. These efforts underscore Guyana’s commitment to abide by international law and seek fair and equitable solutions through diplomatic means.
The conference was themed “Integration and Security for Sustainable Development in the Region”, and Minister Todd’s speech resonated, calling on all member states to prioritize solidarity and cooperation in addressing common challenges. He expressed his hope for a stronger OAS that can uphold peace, justice and solidarity, a beacon of hope in a turbulent global situation.
At this critical time, as nations grapple with complex geopolitical dynamics, Minister Hugh Todd’s steadfast advocacy for regional cooperation and respect for international law is a testament to Guyana’s commitment to a peaceful and prosperous America. By promoting dialogue, respecting sovereignty, and upholding justice, Minister Todd’s leadership highlights the potential of regional organizations, such as the OAS, to foster stability and prosperity in an interconnected world.
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