According to Minister Insanally, the facilitators of the dialogue on the border controversy are expected to meet before the end of this year following which there will be a meeting with the UN Good Officer. These discussions will be followed by a meeting of the Foreign Ministers with the UN Secretary General.

Describing relations between Guyana and Venezuela as being on "an even keel" Minister Insanally noted that the two countries have established a framework of cooperation that is very encouraging, and which might precipitate an amicable solution to Venezuela’s claim.

A renewed commitment by both Governments to foster amicable relations has seen a number of areas for co-operation being identified and the establishment of the Guyana/Venezuela High Level Bilateral Commission.

The two countries have established sub-committees to promote trade and economic co-operation, political consultations, consular matters, culture and transportation, agriculture and environmental concerns. Guyana is also party to the Caracas Energy Co-operation Agreement.

This 'spirit of co-operation' has led to exchange visits by Ministers from both countries. In November 2001, Venezuela’s Minister of External Relations Luis Alfonso Davila visited Guyana, with Minister Insanally making a reciprocal visit in October this year.

When Presidents Bharrat Jagdeo and Hugo Chavez met in Brasilia in September 2002, the two leaders undertook to work towards the maintenance of positive and amicable relations between their two countries.

Guyana is monitoring the present situation in Venezuela and according to Minister Insanally it could affect the Caracas Energy Agreement.