France has expressed concern over Venezuela’s military incursion into Guyana’s Exclusive Economic Zone, urging respect for international law. The U.S. and various organizations have also condemned the actions, warning of consequences for Venezuela if provocations continue. Meanwhile, Venezuela has rejected accusations from Guyana, claiming that the maritime zone is under dispute, while both countries await a ruling from the ICJ concerning the territorial dispute.
On Monday, France publicly joined others in expressing grave concern regarding Venezuela’s military actions in Guyana’s Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ). The French government urged Venezuela to adhere to international law and respect the sovereignty of Guyana, highlighting the need to comply with provisional measures set forth by the International Court of Justice (ICJ) earlier in December 2023 regarding the situation off Essequibo.
Guyana’s government recently reported the presence of a Venezuelan naval vessel near its oil assets, raising alarms among the international community. Following this incident, the United States, Caribbean Community (CARICOM), Commonwealth, and Organization of American States (OAS) called for Venezuela to avoid further aggressive actions that may threaten ExxonMobil’s operations in the area. Washington maintained that ongoing provocations would have repercussions for the Maduro administration and reaffirmed its support for Guyana’s territorial rights based on the 1899 Arbitral Award.
In response, Venezuela dismissed the claims made by Guyana’s President, Irfaan Ali, calling them “baseless remarks.” Caracas asserted that President Ali is inaccurately portraying Venezuelan military activities as violations of Guyanese territory. Venezuela emphasized that these maritime zones remain in dispute and pending delimitation under international law.
Reportedly, a Venezuelan Offshore Patrol vessel attempted to communicate with the FPSO Prosperity and other vessels in the Stabroek Block, asserting that they were in disputed Venezuelan waters. The ongoing territorial dispute between Guyana and Venezuela is presently under deliberation by the ICJ, with the court having established its jurisdiction over the matter.
Guyana expressed serious concern regarding recent Venezuelan actions that it contends violate both the Argyle Agreement and the ICJ’s binding order. Signed in December 2023 in the presence of international actors, the Argyle Agreement obligates both nations to avoid escalating tensions pertaining to this territorial dispute, including refraining from actions that may exacerbate the situation until a resolution is achieved according to international law.
In summary, France has aligned with the international community in urging Venezuela to cease its military incursions into Guyana’s Exclusive Economic Zone. The situation has prompted responses from major international organizations, highlighting the importance of upholding sovereignty and adhering to international legal frameworks. The ongoing dispute remains a complex issue before the ICJ, with calls for both nations to act with restraint as they navigate their territorial disagreements.
Original Source: jamaica-gleaner.com
