Trinidad and Tobago has pledged support for Guyana’s sovereignty amid escalating territorial disputes with Venezuela. President Ali raised alarms about a Venezuelan coast guard vessel intruding into Guyanesse waters. The U.S. and Commonwealth Secretary-General condemned Venezuela’s actions, emphasizing the need for peace and adherence to international law following the signing of the Joint Declaration of Argyle.
Acting Prime Minister Stuart Young expressed Trinidad and Tobago’s firm support for Guyana’s sovereignty amid ongoing territorial disputes with Venezuela. He emphasized the nation’s commitment to the principles laid out in the Argyle Accord, encouraging adherence to its stipulations.
Recently, President Dr. Irfaan Ali of Guyana and President Nicolás Maduro of Venezuela signed the Joint Declaration of Argyle, promoting dialogue and peace. However, tensions escalated following an incident where a Venezuelan coast guard vessel entered Guyana’s exclusive economic zone, prompting alarm from President Ali.
President Ali condemned the Venezuelan incursion, stating that the vessel wrongfully claimed to be in disputed waters while operating within Guyana’s territory, an area rich in offshore oil reserves developed by ExxonMobil. This incident follows an armed attack by suspected Venezuelan pirates on a Guyanese military patrol that left several soldiers injured.
In response to Guyana’s allegations, Venezuela issued a communiqué rejecting President Ali’s claims, asserting that the maritime zone remains undelimited under international law. Their statement accused Ali of provoking conflict in the Caribbean region by misrepresenting the situation.
The United States State Department condemned Venezuela’s actions, labeling them unacceptable and a violation of international law. The Organisation of American States and Caricom reiterated the need for both nations to de-escalate tensions and respect legal obligations surrounding territorial disputes.
Commonwealth Secretary-General Patricia Scotland KC echoed these concerns, praising Guyana’s diplomatic response and restraint. She urged the international community to support Guyana and called on Venezuela to adhere to international law as discussed in the Joint Declaration of Argyle.
Scotland highlighted the importance of respecting the International Court of Justice’s ruling, which advises that Venezuela must not alter the status quo in the disputed territory. She reaffirmed the Commonwealth’s commitment to preserving Guyana’s sovereignty and territorial integrity against infringements by external actors.
In conclusion, Trinidad and Tobago’s backing of Guyana underscores a regional commitment to sovereignty and conflict resolution. The incidents between Guyana and Venezuela signal an urgent need for diplomatic dialogue and adherence to international law to ensure stability in the Caribbean. The support from various international bodies, including the Commonwealth and the United States, reinforces the necessity for de-escalation and respect for territorial integrity.
Original Source: trinidadexpress.com
