The International Business Conference in Suriname faced backlash from Guyana after an erroneous map was displayed, featuring the New River Triangle as part of Suriname. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs and various business associations condemned the misrepresentation, declaring it an affront to Guyana’s sovereignty and calling for accountability in diplomatic representation. The New River Triangle is recognized as Guyana’s territory based on historical agreements.
At the recent International Business Conference in Paramaribo, Suriname, an incorrect map depicting Guyana’s New River Triangle as part of Suriname was displayed, prompting condemnation from multiple Guyanese entities. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs, along with the Foreign Secretary and various business associations, strongly criticized this misrepresentation, emphasizing Guyana’s sovereignty over the disputed territory, which is historically recognized as part of Guyana since a 1936 agreement defined the boundary between the nations.
During the conference, attendees reported that the inaccurate map circulated widely, and even a Surinamese minister’s presentation featured it. Notably, there was a lack of objection from the audience during this presentation. This incident raises concerns, especially as it follows a previous misstep involving the misrepresentation of Guyana by a non-Guyanese delegate at an international event in Bolivia.
Guyanese officials expressed disappointment regarding the absence of a formal protest by the government, with Shadow Minister of Foreign Affairs Amanza Walton Desir highlighting the implications for Guyana’s diplomatic representation abroad. She stated that this incident contributes to a prevailing image of weak diplomacy by the current administration, emphasizing the need for qualified representatives rather than political allies in ambassadorial positions.
Foreign Secretary Robert Persaud reaffirmed Guyana’s territorial integrity, noting that the New River Triangle is recognized as part of Guyana through legally binding international agreements. He underscored the role of the Joint Border Commission, which aims to provide recommendations regarding border disputes without renegotiating established boundaries.
The Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GCCI) publicly condemned the usage of the incorrect maps, viewing it as a direct affront to Guyana’s sovereignty and calling for unity among business entities to counter such misrepresentations. Similarly, the Guyana Manufacturing and Services Association (GMSA) denounced the map’s distribution, maintaining that Guyana’s boundaries, including the New River Triangle, are internationally recognized and legally defined.
The conference organizers have been called upon to ensure accuracy in future presentations. AICI Chairman Dr. Vishnu Doerga acknowledged the existing border commission working on resolving these territorial issues and emphasized mutual respect for each country’s established maps. Meanwhile, the CEO of the Suriname Guyana Chamber of Commerce clarified that the SGCC had no involvement in the distribution of the controversial map and requested transparency regarding the border commission’s progress from both government entities.
The display of an incorrect map at the International Business Conference in Suriname has elicited significant backlash from Guyana’s government and business organizations. They assert the New River Triangle is an integral part of Guyana’s territory, emphasizing the importance of accurate representations to avoid misrepresentation of national sovereignty. The incident highlights ongoing diplomatic challenges and calls for improved representation and respect for international boundaries.
Original Source: www.stabroeknews.com
