Guyana has protested Venezuela’s construction of a bridge on a disputed river island, which reignites a historic boundary conflict over the oil-rich Essequibo region. Foreign Minister Hugh Todd condemned the action as a breach of Guyana’s sovereignty and international agreements reached in prior diplomacy. Guyana continues to seek resolution through the International Court of Justice, with Venezuela expected to respond soon.
The government of Guyana has issued a formal protest to Venezuela following the completion of a bridge by the Venezuelan armed forces on a disputed river island that both nations claim. Guyana’s Foreign Minister, Hugh Todd, expressed concerns over Venezuela’s construction, as this bridge links the Venezuelan mainland to a small military base located on Ankoko island, which is within Guyana’s jurisdiction. Todd condemned the action as a violation of Guyanese sovereignty and a breach of international law, particularly the terms agreed upon during a recent emergency summit in St. Vincent between leaders of both countries. Additionally, this incident reignites a longstanding territorial dispute over the Essequibo region, an area rich in resources, which Venezuela claims based on historical border disputes dating back to the 19th century. Guyana has been litigating this matter in the International Court of Justice and anticipates Venezuela’s response to its claims by August.
The boundary tensions stem from an unresolved claim over Essequibo, comprising two-thirds of Guyana’s territory, which Venezuela argues was wrongly allocated to Guyana in an 1890s agreement. In light of these developments, Guyana asserts that Venezuela’s military activities east of the boundary line demand immediate cessation and the withdrawal of all Venezuela’s personnel and facilities from the area.
Guyana is firmly advocating for its case in the World Court, pursuing resolution through legal means and fostering international dialogue to defuse rising tensions regarding the territorial dispute.
Guyana and Venezuela have a long-standing border dispute primarily over the Essequibo region, which is a resource-rich territory. The conflict dates back to colonial times, with Venezuela contending that it was misled by an 1899 arbitration decision. Since gaining independence from Britain in 1966, Guyana has maintained control over the area, yet tensions have persisted, exacerbated by Venezuelan claims led by its leadership in recent years. Previous attempts at resolution have involved international mediation and discussions, underscoring the need for peaceful dialogue amidst territorial claims by both nations.
In summary, the construction of a bridge by Venezuela on disputed territory has heightened tensions between Guyana and Venezuela, reigniting a historical border dispute over the Essequibo region. Guyana’s government has formally protested against this action, citing violations of sovereignty and international law. As the situation develops, both nations face the challenge of navigating their longstanding disagreement through diplomatic and legal avenues, aiming for a peaceful resolution.
Original Source: caribbean.loopnews.com
