International Relations Professor Mark Kirton emphasizes Guyana’s need to strengthen military capabilities amidst rising Venezuelan aggression over the Essequibo Region. He recommends regional collaboration through CARICOM and the UN for joint military support. Former Foreign Affairs Minister Carl Greenidge also supports the call for a multinational military force, citing the need for organizational logistics and regional diplomatic solidarity.
As tensions escalate over the Essequibo Region between Guyana and Venezuela, International Relations Professor Mark Kirton asserts the necessity for Guyana to enhance its military capabilities. This development arises amidst a backdrop of increased Venezuelan aggression, prompting a call for a coordinated military and diplomatic strategy to safeguard Guyana’s interests. Kirton emphasized the importance of bolstering the nation’s defenses while pursuing diplomatic negotiations throughout the Hemisphere at a recent symposium at Cipriani College in Trinidad, focusing on the border dispute.
Professor Kirton suggested that CARICOM should expand the Regional Security System (RSS) and consider a military observation mission to deter potential Venezuelan incursions. Additionally, he advocated for CARICOM to collaborate with the United Nations in establishing a multilateral military mission. Such measures would not only assist Guyana but also act as a deterrent to Venezuela’s illegal claims and actions in the Essequibo Region.
The issue of external military assistance was underscored by former Guyanese Foreign Affairs Minister Carl Greenidge, who stated that seeking foreign aid should not be viewed as a weakness. Greenidge also endorsed the establishment of a multinational force as a viable logistical solution. He highlighted the urgent need for resource mobilization amidst rising Venezuelan military threats including Iranian-provided equipment and Russian-made aircraft.
Greenidge lamented the absence of coordinated regional support from organizations like CELAC, noting that the lack of response amidst Venezuelan aggressions signals a failure in Guyana’s diplomatic efforts. Kirton further advised that Guyana ought to enhance its communication with the United Nations Security Council concerning any risks to international peace. Moreover, he called for sustained diplomatic engagement with Brazil, emphasizing its commitment to borders and stability.
In order to fortify its stance, Guyana must also increase its outreach to media workers and local organizations to ensure unity and clarity around its geopolitical positioning. This is essential in combatting misinformation and reinforcing a cohesive national front against external threats.
The recent Venezuelan military actions have not gone unnoticed; Kirton remarked that these incidents may indeed represent a broader regional power play. He further criticized Venezuela’s electoral endeavors in the Essequibo Region, interpreting them as calculated intimidation tactics against Guyana’s sovereignty. Despite Guyana’s appeals to the International Court of Justice to halt these unlawful actions, Venezuela persists in rejecting external mediation under the pretense of bilateral negotiations.
In summary, heightened military capacity and strategic collaboration with regional allies and the United Nations are paramount for Guyana’s defense against Venezuelan threats. The urgency for a unified response from CARICOM, as well as proactive engagement in international forums, is clear. Establishing robust defense mechanisms while bolstering diplomatic efforts will be crucial for safeguarding Guyana’s sovereignty in light of escalating tensions.
Original Source: demerarawaves.com
