France Raises Concerns Over Venezuela’s Military Actions in Guyana’s Waters
France has expressed concerns regarding Venezuela’s military incursions into Guyana’s Exclusive Economic Zone, urging adherence to ICJ measures. Guyana alerted the international community about Venezuelan naval presence near its oil assets, leading to calls for restraint from the U.S. and other organizations. The ICJ is currently reviewing the validity of disputes stemming from a historical agreement.
France has recently voiced its concerns regarding Venezuela’s military incursion into Guyana’s Exclusive Economic Zone, calling on Caracas to avoid repeating such actions that may contravene the provisional measures established by the International Court of Justice (ICJ) in 2023. In an official statement, Paris emphasized the importance of respecting Guyana’s sovereignty and the principles of international law.
The call for restraint follows an incident in which Guyana alerted the international community to a Venezuelan naval vessel’s presence near its oil assets for approximately four hours. This situation prompted responses from the United States, the Caribbean Community (CARICOM), the Commonwealth, and the Organization of American States (OAS), all urging Venezuela to refrain from further provocations that threaten ExxonMobil’s operations in the region.
The U.S. has cautioned the Maduro regime about potential consequences should it continue on this path, reiterating its support for Guyana’s territorial integrity in light of the 1899 Arbitral Award. Venezuela, however, rejected comments made by Guyana’s President Irfaan Ali, referring to them as “baseless remarks” and accusing him of dishonesty regarding the naval incursions.
Caracas defended its actions, declaring that the contested waters are not part of Guyanese territory but rather a maritime zone awaiting delimitation under international law. The Venezuelan Offshore Patrol vessel had reportedly contacted the FPSO Prosperity and other vessels to assert that they were operating in disputed waters.
The dispute stems from the proceedings at the ICJ concerning the validity of the Arbitral Award from October 3, 1899, instigated by Guyana in March 2018. The ICJ has affirmed its jurisdiction and will adjudicate the matter based on the merits of the case, which remains ongoing.
The situation between Guyana and Venezuela continues to escalate, with international actors like France and the United States calling for adherence to international law and respect for territorial integrity. Despite these calls, Venezuela maintains its stance on the disputed waters. The involvement of the ICJ adds a layer of complexity as both nations seek a resolution to a historical territorial controversy.
Original Source: jamaica-gleaner.com
