The Presidents of Guyana and Venezuela are set to meet on Thursday to discuss their growing dispute over the oil-rich Essequibo region. The meeting will take place in Saint Vincent and the Grenadines and will be attended by Brazilian President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva, at both sides’ request.

The Essequibo dispute has raised concerns, with international leaders warning against escalation of the row. Brazil has sent army reinforcements to its northern borders with both Guyana and Venezuela, amid mounting tension. Colombian President Gustavo Petro has also expressed his concerns over the potentially explosive situation.

Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro and his Guyanese counterpart, Irfaan Ali, will hold discussions in a bid to find a resolution to the conflict. Lula, who has maintained friendly ties with Maduro, has been invited to the meeting to help mediate the dispute.

The conflict over the Essequibo region has been ongoing for decades, with both sides claiming ownership of the territory. The region is believed to have vast oil reserves, making it a valuable asset to both countries.

The meeting between the two presidents comes amidst mounting pressure from the international community to find a peaceful resolution to the conflict. It remains to be seen whether the talks will result in a breakthrough or if tensions will continue to escalate.