Vice President Dr. Bharrat Jagdeo of Guyana stated that Venezuela is in a weak position while reaffirming Guyana’s commitment to diplomatic engagement and legal action through the International Court of Justice (ICJ). The Venezuelan election proposed for Essequibo is seen as a breach of international law, prompting Guyana to seek urgent Court intervention. Jagdeo criticized Venezuelan officials’ remarks about President Ali as immature and emphasized international support for Guyana’s sovereignty.
Vice President Dr. Bharrat Jagdeo emphasized the precarious position of Venezuela, labeling its remarks as “infantile.” He confirmed that Guyana remains committed to engaging with the International Court of Justice (ICJ) and collaborating with international allies to address escalating tensions arising from Venezuela’s recent provocations. Jagdeo highlighted that Venezuela has violated a December 2023 ICJ ruling and the Argyle Declaration, particularly regarding its plans for elections in the disputed Essequibo region.
Guyana perceives the upcoming Venezuelan elections, scheduled for May 25, 2025, as a serious breach of the Court’s order and international law. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation underscored that these electoral plans threaten the rights of the Essquibo populace and jeopardize the territorial integrity of Guyana. Consequently, the Guyanese government is urgently requesting the ICJ’s intervention to halt Venezuela’s electoral activities.
Jagdeo reiterated Guyana’s resolve to secure international support, stating, “Venezuela is in a weak position.” He mentioned backing from influential partners, including the United States, the United Kingdom, France, and the Caribbean Community. Regarding derogatory remarks made by Venezuelan officials towards President Dr. Irfaan Ali, he characterized them as lacking seriousness and maturity.
This is the second instance in which Guyana has sought provisional measures from the ICJ. After an initial favorable ruling in late 2023, which mandated Venezuela to refrain from actions altering the territorial dispute status, the Guyanese government now warns that Venezuela’s planned elections could violate this Court order, leading to significant implications for the status quo.
Furthermore, the Guyanese leadership has expressed urgent concerns about potential long-term damage to the nation’s sovereignty and the well-being of its nationals residing in the Essequibo region should the Court delay intervention.
In conclusion, Vice President Dr. Bharrat Jagdeo has highlighted Venezuela’s vulnerable position amid ongoing diplomatic tensions over the Essequibo region. Guyana’s government is pursuing legal action to counter Venezuela’s electoral plans, viewing them as direct violations of an ICJ ruling. With continued support from key international allies, Guyana is steadfast in its efforts to protect its territorial integrity and the rights of its citizens in the face of escalating provocations from Venezuela.
Original Source: newsroom.gy
