Guyana Accuses Venezuela of Incursion into Territorial Waters
Guyanese President Irfaan Ali reported that a Venezuelan coast guard vessel entered Guyanese waters, approaching an offshore oil block amidst ongoing territorial disputes over the Esequibo region. Guyana has lodged formal complaints and plans to engage the ICJ and international partners, while the Organization of American States condemned this incursion into Guyanese territory.
On Saturday, Guyana’s President Irfaan Ali reported that a Venezuelan coast guard vessel entered Guyanese waters, approaching an oil output vessel in an offshore block. This incursion further escalates a longstanding territorial dispute regarding the Esequibo region, a 160,000-square-kilometer area currently under consideration by the International Court of Justice (ICJ). The Exxon group has been unable to carry out exploration in the northwest section of the oil block due to force majeure restrictions.
President Ali stated, “During this incursion, the Venezuelan vessel approached various assets in our exclusive waters, including FPSO Prosperity.” In response, Guyana summoned the Venezuelan ambassador for a meeting with its foreign minister to express strong objections to the situation. Additionally, the Guyanese embassy in Caracas has been instructed to file a formal complaint with the Venezuelan government.
Guyana will report this incident to the ICJ while also involving international partners such as CARICOM. Ali indicated military precautions, noting that the Guyanese government has deployed unspecified air assets. In a response to the violation, the Organization of American States (OAS) condemned Venezuelan actions in what they assert is Guyana’s internationally recognized maritime territory.
The United States Bureau of Western Hemisphere Affairs commented on the violations, stating, “Further provocation will result in consequences for the Maduro regime.” This incident underscores ongoing tensions between the two nations and highlights the need for diplomatic resolutions to territorial disputes.
In summary, the Venezuelan coast guard’s incursion into Guyanese waters has heightened tensions between Guyana and Venezuela, amid an unresolved territorial dispute over the Esequibo area. Guyana is taking diplomatic measures, including summoning the Venezuelan ambassador and filing a complaint with the ICJ. The matter has drawn international condemnation, primarily from the OAS and the United States, emphasizing the urgency for conflict resolution.
Original Source: www.thestar.com.my
