St Vincent Prime Minister Ralph Gonsalves foresees continued tensions in the Guyana-Venezuela border dispute, regardless of the forthcoming ICJ ruling. He emphasized the tension that persists after the announcement of the judgment, which is expected in the near future. Recent provocations, including a Venezuelan naval presence near Guyana’s oil assets, have exacerbated the situation, underscoring the intricate geopolitical dynamics at play.
In a recent address, Prime Minister of St Vincent and the Grenadines, Dr. Ralph Gonsalves, expressed concerns regarding the ongoing tensions following the anticipated ruling from the International Court of Justice (ICJ) in the longstanding border dispute between Guyana and Venezuela. He noted that regardless of the ICJ’s decision, tensions would persist between the two nations.
Gonsalves, acting as an interlocutor under the Argyle Agreement established in December 2023, stated that the ICJ might issue its judgment later this year or early next year. He acknowledged uncertainty about the litigation’s progress and recognized the court needs sufficient time to finalize its judgment after holding hearings.
Recent events intensified the situation when Guyana informed the Caribbean Community (CARICOM) and the international community about a Venezuelan naval vessel lingering near its oil assets for several hours. Consequently, multiple international entities, including the United States and CARICOM, urged Venezuela to avoid provocations towards Guyana’s ExxonMobil Floating Production Storage and Offloading vessel.
In response, the Venezuelan government refuted claims made by Guyana’s President, Irfaan Ali, declaring that it “categorically repudiates the baseless remarks” concerning alleged violations of territorial waters. It insists that these ocean areas are open to delimitation under international law, not recognized as part of Guyana’s territory.
The ongoing dispute involves the Arbitral Award of October 3, 1899, with the ICJ cautioning Venezuela against potential actions described as “annexation” of the Essequibo region, known for its valuable oil reserves. The ICJ has confirmed its jurisdiction over the dispute, which Guyana initiated in March 2018, seeking clarity on the validity of the historical Arbitral Award that delineates their land boundary.
In conclusion, the remarks by Prime Minister Ralph Gonsalves highlight the enduring tensions between Guyana and Venezuela, irrespective of the forthcoming ICJ ruling. The involvement of international bodies and the disputing nations’ heated exchanges further complicate the situation. With the ICJ poised to provide a judgment regarding the historical boundary dispute, stakeholders remain vigilant over potential escalations in the region.
Original Source: www.jamaicaobserver.com
