President Ali Reaffirms Canada-Guyana Alliance Amid Rising Venezuela Tensions

President Dr. Mohamed Irfaan Ali on Tuesday evening reaffirmed Guyana’s enduring diplomatic relationship with Canada, emphasizing the importance of their shared democratic values and mutual support amid escalating territorial pressure from Venezuela.

Speaking at a reception celebrating the 158th anniversary of Canada’s Confederation, hosted at the residence of Canadian High Commissioner Sébastien Sigouin, President Ali extended heartfelt gratitude for Canada’s consistent solidarity with Guyana, both bilaterally and in multilateral arenas.

“Just as we celebrate our diversity, so too must we be diligent to defend our sovereignty,” President Ali declared, adding, “Our diversity can only thrive when the state is secure…our borders, our democracy, and our freedom must always be rigidly guarded.”

The president used the diplomatic occasion to deliver a clear and firm message regarding Venezuela’s intensified claims to the Essequibo region, which comprises nearly two-thirds of Guyana’s territory. “Just as Canada was told to resist any attempt to diminish its territorial integrity, so too will Guyana defend its borders…with unwavering resolve,” he stated.

The Guyanese leader reaffirmed that these claims are both “legally unjust” and “historically unsound,” and reiterated that Guyana would pursue all peaceful and lawful avenues to protect its sovereignty.

President Ali also commended Canada for its peaceful and transparent elections earlier this year, describing them as an inspiration for Guyana’s own upcoming general and regional elections, scheduled for September 1, 2025. “In this we take inspiration and encouragement from our democratic partners-Canada, chief among them,” he said. He pledged that the Government of Guyana would continue to uphold the principles of transparency, fairness, and respect for the people’s will.

High Commissioner Sigouin echoed the president’s remarks and confirmed that Canada will partner with the Guyana Council of Organisations for Persons with Disabilities, the Organisation of American States, and the Carter Centre to help ensure an accessible, credible, and transparent electoral process in Guyana. “A strong democracy makes for a strong nation,” Sigouin noted, highlighting Canada’s ongoing investment in democratic institutions in the region.

President Ali also emphasised the cultural and societal parallels between Guyana and Canada including their ethnic diversity, pluralism, and commitment to inclusion. He described these shared attributes as the bedrock of a long-standing diplomatic and developmental partnership.

The reception was attended by senior government officials including Prime Minister Brigadier (Ret’d) Mark Phillips, Foreign Minister Hugh Todd, members of the diplomatic corps, civil society leaders, private sector representatives, and Indigenous community leaders.