In a definitive statement on international compliance, Guatemalan Foreign Minister Carlos Ramiro Martinez Alvarado has unequivocally committed to honoring the International Court of Justice’s forthcoming ruling regarding ongoing territorial disputes. The declaration came during high-level diplomatic engagements with the Organization of American States (OAS) on January 22, 2026.
Minister Martinez Alvarado characterized Guatemala’s relationship with the OAS as fundamentally collaborative, emphasizing the nation’s steadfast dedication to international legal frameworks. When directly questioned about Guatemala’s position on the ICJ’s eventual decision, the Foreign Minister responded with an unambiguous affirmation: “With a firm ‘yes’, I respond to your question regarding our respect for the ICJ final ruling regardless of the outcome.”
The diplomatic discussions also addressed documented military incursions along the contentious Sarstoon River border area, which remains a persistent flashpoint in regional relations. Minister Martinez Alvarado acknowledged that while some confrontational incidents have proven “unfortunately inevitable,” both neighboring nations have implemented concrete measures to de-escalate tensions throughout the disputed territory.
“The primary objective remains reducing tension across the entire zone, including the Sarstoon River,” Martinez Alvarado stated, underscoring Guatemala’s commitment to diplomatic solutions despite periodic clashes. Both governments continue to signal their intention to maintain dialogue and adhere to established international protocols through the OAS framework, with the newly appointed OAS Secretary-General representative Francis Fonseca participating in the critical talks.