Prime Minister Ralph Gonsalves of St. Vincent and the Grenadines affirmed that Venezuelan naval activities in Guyana’s maritime territory are within Guyana’s jurisdiction. He emphasized the role of the Argyle Declaration, which aims to maintain peace amidst ongoing tensions over border disputes, particularly those involving FPSO platforms in Guyana’s EEZ. Gonsalves expressed a commitment to preventing conflict through dialogue and highlighted the importance of international collaboration.
Ralph Gonsalves, the Prime Minister of St. Vincent and the Grenadines, asserted that the recent Venezuelan naval activities within Guyana’s maritime territory, particularly concerning Floating Production, Storage, and Offloading (FPSO) platforms, are indisputably under Guyana’s jurisdiction. His comments were made during a radio interview on NBC Radio and highlight the existing tensions over territory as both nations await the International Court of Justice’s ruling on the matter.
The Argyle Declaration, signed to address the border controversy between Guyana and Venezuela, remains central to managing relations between the two countries. Gonsalves indicated that even with the impending ICJ decision, challenges to peace may continue. He mentioned receiving information from President Irfaan Ali about Venezuelan incursions into Guyana’s Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ) where the FPSO platforms operate, crucial for Guyana’s oil economy.
The Prime Minister emphasized the significance of the FPSO platforms being under Guyana’s jurisdiction due to their role in oil exploration. He noted that as tensions escalated, the Argyle Declaration was activated to help manage the situation. Gonsalves stated, “Our Argyle Declaration had to be activated. It’s the mechanism that was put in place to ensure peace during such incidents. It was really a matter of urgency.”
To mitigate the risk of conflict, Gonsalves stressed the necessity for dialogue and quick diplomatic action. He acknowledged that both the United States and the United Kingdom have important interests in the region and are involved in neutralizing tensions. He remarked on the potential for a military conflict arising from these tensions, stating, “Anything can happen in a situation like this. Tensions could spiral out of control, leading to a full-scale military operation.”
Gonsalves reaffirmed his dedication to the peace process and his responsibilities under the Argyle Declaration. He emphasized the delicate balance that must be maintained and voiced hope that continuous diplomatic efforts could stave off crises even after the ICJ’s judgment.
He concluded by reiterating the fundamental nature of the Argyle Declaration as a vital tool for conflict prevention, asserting, “This is no joke. Peace must always come first, especially in matters of national sovereignty and territorial integrity. The role of the international community is pivotal in ensuring that peace prevails in this region.”
In conclusion, Prime Minister Ralph Gonsalves has underscored the critical importance of the Argyle Declaration in managing escalating tensions between Guyana and Venezuela over maritime jurisdiction and oil exploration. His insights highlight the ongoing diplomatic efforts needed to maintain peace and prevent conflict amid regional complexities. With the International Court of Justice’s decision pending, Gonsalves emphasizes the necessity of international cooperation and dialogue to ensure stability in the area.
Original Source: newsroom.gy
