Shadow Minister of Foreign Affairs, Amaza Walton-Desir delivered a scathing critique of the government’s foreign policy saying that it fails to advance the most effective defence to threats such as those from Venezuela. The parliamentarian also criticized the government for dropping the proverbial ball on having a diplomatic presence in key nations such as India and Russia.
During her contributions to the 2024 budget debate today, the parliamentarian stressed the need for a clearly defined foreign policy that is premised on proactively safeguarding Guyana’s sovereignty and territorial integrity, strengthening ties with CARICOM nations and deploying envoys to strategic territories.
With respect to Venezuela’s spurious claims over the Essequibo region, Walton-Desir said there needs to be a more proactive approach in streamlining international interactions for support. She said the government cannot be seen as falling into a state of dormancy, only erupting when Venezuela has demonstrated aggression.
“What we have seen is a just in time, for the moment attitude, that has come to characterize our foreign policy interactions. This must end,” she stated, while advocating for the creation of a Foreign Relations Council. She said this body can comprise top minds from various sectors to continuously reassess Guyana’s foreign policy so that it is fluid, effective and always seen to be active.
Equally important to Guyana’s foreign policy framework is enhancing relationships with CARICOM member states, the politician said. In this regard, she called for the immediate deployment of envoys to work continuously with regional partners.
Walton-Desir also criticized the government for its lack of urgency in appointing key diplomatic positions, notably an Ambassador to Brazil. “The sloth in this regard, is unacceptable Mr. Speaker and must be remedied forthwith,” she declared to the House.
Additionally, Walton-Desir expressed concern over Guyana’s minimal diplomatic presence in other strategic locations such as Africa, India, Jamaica, Trinidad and Tobago, Russia, Switzerland, Belgium, Kuwait, the United Arab Emirates, and Suriname. She said these gaps need to be filled, otherwise, Guyana remains at risk of further weakening its foreign policy.
