Growing Maritime Tensions Between Guyana and Venezuela: A Call for Peace and Resolution
Guyana and Venezuela are embroiled in a maritime dispute following an incursion by a Venezuelan naval vessel into Guyana’s exclusive economic zone. The conflict has resulted in strong verbal exchanges, with Venezuela attacking President Irfaan Ali’s credibility and Guyana reaffirming its territorial claims with international support. Caricom has called for de-escalation and adherence to international law to resolve the issue peacefully, highlighting the significance of maintaining peace in the Caribbean amid regional tensions.
A recent maritime dispute between Guyana and Venezuela escalated following complaints from Guyana regarding an incursion by an armed Venezuelan naval vessel into its exclusive economic zone. This prompted Venezuelan government officials to label Guyanese President Irfaan Ali as the “Caribbean’s Zelenskyy”—an insult aimed at discrediting his claims. Venezuela accused Ali of making false statements that jeopardize peace in the Caribbean region, while Guyana asserted its territorial rights, citing support from allies, including the United States.
Venezuela’s state response condemned President Ali’s remarks as groundless accusations, maintaining that the contested waters are not recognized as part of Guyana’s territory due to pending delimitation disputes. Venezuelan officials further criticized Guyana for negotiating concessions in these waters, arguing it violated international law and undermined the 1966 Geneva Agreement, which governs the territorial dispute.
In response to the increasing tensions, Caricom called for the immediate withdrawal of the Venezuelan naval vessel, stressing the need for both nations to adhere to international law and refrain from provocative actions. Their statement highlighted that such confrontations contravene the principles established in the 2023 Argyle Declaration, which aims to maintain the Caribbean as a Zone of Peace.
The situation has stirred up a longstanding territorial dispute over the Essequibo region, which has gained renewed attention since ExxonMobil’s significant oil discovery in Guyana in 2015. President Maduro of Venezuela has intensified efforts to assert claims over this area, which constitutes around two-thirds of Guyana’s land mass. Mediation by Caricom, particularly through Prime Minister Ralph Gonsalves of St. Vincent and the Grenadines, aimed to defuse tensions surrounding the conflict.
The maritime tensions between Guyana and Venezuela have resurfaced due to allegations of territorial violations by Venezuelan naval forces. Both nations have exchanged heated accusations, with Guyana asserting its rights and garnering international support. Caricom intervened to advocate for calm and resolution in alignment with international law, emphasizing the importance of maintaining peace in the Caribbean amidst ongoing disputes over territorial claims in the region.
Original Source: trinidadexpress.com
