Ongoing Tensions Anticipated Post-ICJ Ruling in Guyana-Venezuela Dispute

Prime Minister Ralph Gonsalves of St. Vincent and the Grenadines has warned of persistent tensions following the ICJ’s ruling in the Guyana-Venezuela border dispute. Tensions have been exacerbated by recent provocations, including a Venezuelan naval vessel near Guyana’s oil assets. Both nations await the court’s decision regarding the validity of historical boundaries established in 1899.

Prime Minister Ralph Gonsalves of St. Vincent and the Grenadines recently remarked on the ongoing tensions regarding the border dispute between Guyana and Venezuela, indicating that these tensions will persist following the International Court of Justice’s (ICJ) forthcoming ruling. “Whichever way they go, you’re still going to have tensions,” he asserted, emphasizing the complexity of the situation.

Gonsalves, serving as an interlocutor based on the Argyle Agreement signed in December 2023, noted that the ICJ is expected to issue its judgment either late this year or early next year. He acknowledged uncertainty regarding the current status of the litigation process, reflecting, “I don’t know. I’m not too up-to-speed on the progress of the litigation.”

Recent events saw Guyana alerting the Caribbean Community (CARICOM) and the international community about a Venezuelan naval vessel that lingered near its oil assets for approximately four hours. In response, nations including the United States, France, CARICOM, the Commonwealth, and the Organization of American States (OAS) urged Venezuela to refrain from provocation, particularly concerning ExxonMobil’s Floating Production Storage and Offloading (FPSO) vessel.

Venezuela rebutted comments made by Guyana’s President, Irfaan Ali, declaring that it “categorically repudiates the baseless remarks” of Ali, who it claims has lied regarding the violation of Guyanese maritime territory. Caracas contends that these waters do not fall within Guyanese territory, as a delimitation is pending according to international law.

The ICJ is currently deliberating on the Arbitral Award of October 3, 1899. This award previously determined the boundary between Guyana and Venezuela, with the ICJ cautioning Caracas against the attempted annexation of Essequibo, a significant oil-rich area. Guyana filed the case in March 2018, seeking a judicial validation of the award that defines the land boundary. The court has affirmed its jurisdiction and will address the merits of the case further.

In summary, Prime Minister Ralph Gonsalves has expressed that tensions between Guyana and Venezuela regarding their border dispute are likely to continue, regardless of the ICJ’s future ruling. The complex geopolitical landscape emphasizes ongoing provocations and international concern, particularly surrounding oil resources. Both nations remain in a critical period as they await the ICJ’s decision, which could play a pivotal role in shaping regional dynamics.

Original Source: suntci.com