Negotiation is quite a unique process: it is well known that calling for, engaging in and even completing negotiations does not mean that one or both parties wants them to be successful. In this regard, what is said about states can be generally applied: ‘It should never be forgotten that states sometimes engage in prenegotiations, and even in substantive negotiation, merely in order to buy time or obtain a good press for being considered accommodating’ (Berridge, G R. (2010) Diplomacy: Theory and Practice. Palgrave, Macmillan).
Furthermore, no one following the political process in Guyana should have to be reminded that, under political pressure,
