Suriname’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, Albert Ramdin, issued a formal protest note to Guyana regarding plans to develop the disputed Tigri area, highlighting concerns over territorial integrity and diplomatic relations. Ramdin met with the Guyanese ambassador to discuss the implications of President Irfaan Ali’s proposed developments in the region, emphasizing compliance with prior diplomatic agreements.
On Friday, Albert Ramdin, the Minister of Foreign Affairs, International Business and International Cooperation of Suriname, delivered a formal protest note to the government of Guyana. This action was prompted by reports that Guyana intends to commence development activities in the disputed Tigri area, specifically the proposal to upgrade the airstrip at Camp Jaguar. Ramdin summoned Guyana’s ambassador to Suriname, Virjanand Depoo, to formally discuss these developments.
During the meeting, Ramdin expressed serious concerns regarding President Irfaan Ali’s plans to undertake construction in the Upper Corantijn area, a situation exacerbated by prior intentions to establish a school on disputed territory at Kasjoe Island. Ramdin declared that the public announcements made by President Ali about operations within Suriname’s territory lacked the necessary approval from Surinamese authorities and emphasized that such undertakings could strain the cordial relationship and cooperation established between the two nations.
The Tigri area, known by Guyana as the New River Triangle, has been a point of contention since 1969 when the Guyana Defence Force took control of the territory despite Suriname’s claims. Historical attempts at resolving the dispute included mediation offers from Trinidad and Tobago’s Prime Minister Eric Williams in 1970, yet Guyana has not adhered to the agreements that called for the withdrawal of military forces from the disputed region. Suriname remains unwavering in its assertion of sovereignty over this area, a stance echoed by past leaders, ensuring that the issue remains pertinent in regional diplomatic discussions.
The ongoing border dispute between Suriname and Guyana primarily concerns the Tigri area, known as the New River Triangle by Guyana. This forested region in southwestern Suriname has been contested since 1969 when Guyana’s military took control during a period when Suriname was still a part of the Kingdom of the Netherlands. Despite attempts at diplomatic resolution, including agreements made in Trinidad and Tobago, Guyana has maintained a military presence in the area, leading to repeated tensions over sovereignty claims. The history of the dispute includes significant skirmishes and continued negotiations, reflecting a complex relationship influenced by national pride and territorial integrity.
The recent diplomatic exchange between Suriname and Guyana reflects an ongoing struggle over the disputed Tigri area, emphasizing the need for mutual respect and adherence to international agreements. Ramdin’s protest signifies Suriname’s commitment to assert its territorial claims while seeking peaceful resolution. As both nations strive for constructive cooperation, it remains crucial to navigate these disputes diplomatically to prevent regional instability.
Original Source: www.guardian.co.tt
