The United Kingdom and France condemned a Venezuelan naval incursion into Guyana’s Exclusive Economic Zone, aggravating an ongoing border dispute. France and the UK urged Venezuela to respect Guyana’s sovereignty and comply with international law. Support for Guyana also came from the US and CARICOM, while President Ali protested the actions. The incident raises concerns about regional stability as the dispute continues to be addressed by the International Court of Justice.
The United Kingdom and France have condemned a recent incursion by a Venezuelan Coast Guard vessel into Guyana’s Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ), particularly near the Stabroek Block oil reservoir. This incident has escalated the ongoing border dispute between Guyana and Venezuela, raising concerns over regional stability and international law compliance.
France’s Ministry for Europe and Foreign Affairs expressed significant concern, urging Venezuela to recognize Guyana’s sovereignty and adhere to the principles of international law, particularly regarding the December 1, 2023, International Court of Justice (ICJ) order. The ministry called for an end to unilateral actions that could alter the status quo.
UK Foreign Secretary David Lammy characterized the incursion as a “serious provocative act”. He reaffirmed the United Kingdom’s support for Guyana’s territorial integrity, calling on Venezuela to cease actions that could jeopardize regional peace and stability.
Backing Guyana, the United States and the Caribbean Community (CARICOM) have also expressed their objections to Venezuela’s actions. U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio condemned the incident as “unacceptable”, warning the Maduro regime of potential consequences if provocations persist, while CARICOM labeled the activities as violations of international law and reiterated their support for Guyana.
Guyana’s President, Dr. Irfaan Ali, has publicly condemned the Venezuelan incursion, labeling it a “matter of grave concern”. He emphasized the international recognition of Guyana’s maritime boundaries and indicated that the government has filed a formal protest against Venezuela. Additionally, increased patrols from the Guyana Coast Guard have been dispatched to ensure security in the region.
The Venezuelan vessel reportedly approached oil platforms, instilling anxiety among the workforce, notably aboard the FPSO Prosperity. The Venezuelan Coast Guard claimed the vessels were in disputed waters, a assertion categorically dismissed by Guyana. This event is part of a long-lasting border dispute concerning the oil-rich Essequibo region, which covers almost two-thirds of Guyana’s territory and is currently under review by the ICJ for a definitive ruling.
The incursion by the Venezuelan Coast Guard into Guyana’s waters has drawn condemnation from the United Kingdom and France, highlighting the ongoing territorial dispute. Both nations have called for adherence to international law, with support from the United States and CARICOM. Guyana’s government is actively addressing the situation, emphasizing the integrity of its maritime borders and deploying additional coast guard patrols. As tensions rise, the matter awaits further judgment from the ICJ.
Original Source: www.caribbeannationalweekly.com
