The UK and France condemned a Venezuelan naval incursion into Guyana’s EEZ, heightening tensions in a longstanding border dispute. Both nations urged Venezuela to respect Guyana’s sovereignty and adhere to international law following similar statements from the US and CARICOM. Guyana’s President condemned the incident, and additional Coast Guard patrols have been deployed to secure the area. The matter is currently before the International Court of Justice.
The United Kingdom and France have issued a strong condemnation regarding a March 1 incursion by a Venezuelan Coast Guard vessel into Guyana’s Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ) close to the Stabroek Block oil reservoir. This incursion, which involved the Venezuelan patrol vessel approaching local oil platforms, further escalates the ongoing border dispute between Guyana and Venezuela.
France’s Ministry for Europe and Foreign Affairs expressed “concern” over Venezuela’s actions, urging Caracas to respect Guyana’s sovereignty and abide by international laws. The ministry also referenced the December 1, 2023, order from the International Court of Justice (ICJ), which instructed Venezuela to halt any unilateral actions that could jeopardize the status quo off the coast of Essequibo.
The UK’s Foreign Secretary, David Lammy, labeled the incursion a “serious provocative act,” reiterating Britain’s commitment to Guyana’s recognized territorial integrity. He called for Venezuela to cease such provocations, emphasizing their potential threat to regional stability.
The statements from the UK and France align with previous condemnations from the United States and the Caribbean Community (CARICOM). U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio deemed the incident “unacceptable,” warning of possible repercussions for the Maduro regime if provocations persist. CARICOM characterized Venezuela’s actions as “acts of aggression” that contravene international law and affirmed its steadfast support for Guyana’s sovereignty.
Guyana’s President, Dr. Irfaan Ali, denounced the incident in a national address, highlighting the serious nature of the breach. He emphasized the international recognition of Guyana’s maritime boundaries and noted that a formal protest had been lodged with Venezuela. The Minister of Foreign Affairs has summoned the Venezuelan Ambassador to communicate Guyana’s objections, while increased patrols from the Guyana Coast Guard have been dispatched to the Stabroek Block.
Concerns have been raised regarding the safety of the hundreds of workers on the oil platforms, including the FPSO Prosperity, which was approached by the Venezuelan vessel. The Venezuelan Coast Guard reportedly claimed via radio that the platforms were operating in disputed waters, a position firmly rejected by Guyana.
This incursion signifies yet another escalation in a longstanding border dispute over the oil-rich Essequibo region, which constitutes nearly two-thirds of Guyana’s territory. This issue is currently under review by the International Court of Justice, which is expected to provide a decisive ruling on the matter.
The United Kingdom and France have condemned Venezuela’s naval incursion into Guyana’s EEZ, further complicating the age-old border dispute. Regional support for Guyana encompasses statements from the United States and CARICOM, reaffirming Guyana’s sovereignty. The situation remains tense, with Guyana poised to bolster security measures in response to Venezuelan actions. This ongoing conflict highlights the critical importance of diplomatic dialogue and adherence to international laws regarding territorial claims.
Original Source: www.caribbeannationalweekly.com
