Marco Rubio will visit Guyana to enhance U.S. security support as it faces Venezuelan claims over oil-rich territories. Guyana is set to become the largest per capita oil producer. Rubio’s trip includes signing a memorandum on security cooperation, amid heightened tensions and historical disputes over the Essequibo region.
Secretary of State Marco Rubio is set to visit Guyana, aiming to provide U.S. security support to the oil-rich nation against potential threats from Venezuela. With significant oil reserves discovered a decade ago, Guyana is on track to become the world’s largest oil producer per capita, surpassing Qatar and Kuwait. Amid rising tensions, Rubio will sign a memorandum of understanding to enhance security cooperation as Guyana’s government fortifies its defense against Venezuelan claims.
During his trip, Rubio will also stop in Suriname, aiming to strengthen relationships in the Caribbean after discussions with leaders in Jamaica. The Trump administration envisages a security partnership with Guyana similar to that with the Gulf Arab nations, which have U.S. military presence for protection against regional adversaries. U.S. Special Envoy Mauricio Claver-Carone emphasized that ensuring Guyana’s security is a priority, particularly because of threats posed by Venezuela.
Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro’s regime has made claims to Guyana’s Essequibo region, which is rich in oil resources. Despite Venezuela’s denial of any territorial violations, Guyana condemned a recent incursion by a Venezuelan military vessel. The situation escalated when Venezuela’s parliament sought to declare Essequibo as its 24th state, a claim still rejected internationally based on a 1899 arbitration decision.
The Trump administration is reportedly focused on increasing oil production for both economic and strategic reasons. ExxonMobil, a Texas-based company, leads oil production efforts in Guyana, which have expanded significantly. It is estimated that ExxonMobil will achieve a gross production level of 1.3 million barrels per day by the decade’s end, outpacing Venezuela’s dwindling oil output due to years of mismanagement and sanctions. Moreover, under pressure, the administration has revoked Chevron’s exemption from U.S. sanctions on Venezuelan oil operations.
In summary, Secretary Marco Rubio’s impending visit to Guyana signifies a pivotal moment for U.S.-Guyana relations, focusing on security cooperation in light of Venezuelan threats. As Guyana emerges as a major oil producer, the U.S. aims to bolster its partnership, drawing parallels to its relationships with Gulf states. However, the rising geopolitical tensions underscore the complexities of territorial claims and international diplomacy in the region.
Original Source: www.albianews.com
