The first face-to-face exchange between Venezuela and Guyana’s Presidents occurred this afternoon, as they met regarding the border dispute involving the Essequibo region.

President Irfaan Ali of Guyana afterwards, explained to the media what he communicated to Veuezuelan Counterpart Nicolas Maduro.

Dr. Ali said he also communicated his desire to maintain peace.

The Guyana President reiterated that the border controversy will be determined with the International Court of Justice.

Meanwhile, Venezuela’s President Nicolas Maduro stated on social media that they arrived in Saint Vincent and the Grenadines with the mandate of the people of Venezuela to move forward through dialogue and the word of peace, defending the rights of the people and their homeland.

In the post prior to the meeting, he said they were looking for effective, satisfactory and practical solutions as mandated by the Geneva Agreement.

He also welcomed the fact that CELAC and CARICOM have achieved this step.