Guyana must keep a ‘ready force’ even though it hopes to settle border controversy through diplomacy- Norton

Norton called the Venezuelan government, and at times, the state itself, many things: a bully, an aggressor, and a dangerous and sinister enemy.

He believes Guyana is rightfully defending its territory in accordance with international law but said many times throughout his lengthy address that other measures must be taken to bolster Guyana’s defences.

“… we will have to take measures not only to defend our territorial integrity and sovereignty but also our place in the Latin American and Caribbean Region.

“Clearly, there is a need for a more robust and aggressive foreign policy, vis a vis Latin America and the Caribbean,” he said too.

Norton also pointed out that there have been instances where Venezuelan military personnel violated Guyana’s borders and entered upon Guyanese soil. Should the country’s planned December 3 referendum go ahead, he believes that Venezuela may become even more aggressive.

So Norton joined fellow lawmakers in denouncing that referendum and supporting Guyana’s move to resolve the controversy at the ICJ.