Venezuela has criticized Guyana and regional groups for exacerbating tensions over the maritime dispute in the Essequibo region. Defense Minister Lopez defended Venezuela’s stance, disputing Guyana’s legal claims and accusing foreign corporations of imperialistic actions. International support for Guyana has been strong, with calls for diplomatic resolution amidst allegations of illegal exploitation and military threats.
Venezuela has firmly criticized Guyana and various regional organizations for allegedly fostering animosity amidst ongoing tensions over the maritime dispute in the Essequibo region. Defense Minister General Vladimir Padrino Lopez rejected claims made by Guyanese President Dr. Irfaan Ali concerning a Venezuelan Coast Guard vessel’s presence in waters where sovereignty remains contested. Lopez referenced the Geneva Agreement, asserting that Guyana lacks legal authority to lay claim to the disputed maritime zone, emphasizing that the matter should adhere to international protocols.
The incident, which occurred on March 1, involved allegations that a Venezuelan naval vessel intruded into Guyana’s exclusive economic zone near the Prosperity FPSO platform. Following Guyana’s denunciation, U.S. authorities confirmed the incident, denouncing the actions of the Venezuelan vessel, which posed threats to employees of ExxonMobil. Lopez further accused the Guyanese government of unlawful hydrocarbon exploitation, characterizing the actions of foreign corporations as imperialistic and calling for a unified military response to safeguard Venezuelan interests.
Lopez condemned the perceived bias of certain regional organizations, claiming their actions exacerbate hostility rather than contribute to a peaceful resolution of the Venezuela-Guyana dispute. He reiterated the armed forces’ commitment to anti-imperialism and readiness to defend territorial integrity. The U.S. has put a $15 million bounty on Lopez, linking him to drug trafficking accusations, and has publicly refrained from recognizing the Venezuelan government under President Nicolás Maduro due to disputed electoral results.
International support for Guyana has been robust, with numerous countries and organizations, including Caricom and the Organisation of American States (OAS), standing in solidarity with Guyanese sovereignty. The acting Prime Minister of Trinidad and Tobago, Stuart Young, reiterated the country’s alignment with Guyana’s territorial claims and stressed the importance of adhering to diplomatic channels.
Commonwealth Secretary-General Patricia Scotland also voiced strong condemnation of Venezuela’s actions, urging respect for international law and support for Guyana. Scotland commended Guyana’s diplomatic handling of the incident and highlighted the need for adherence to the provisions outlined in the Joint Declaration of Argyle aimed at peaceful dialogue and resolution.
In summary, Venezuela’s aggressive stance on the maritime dispute with Guyana has drawn sharp rebukes from both Guyanese authorities and the international community. The tensions underscore a complex backdrop of territorial claims intertwined with geopolitical interests, prompting widespread calls for diplomatic resolutions to prevent escalation. With the support of various regional players and international organizations, Guyana remains firm in its position of sovereignty, while Venezuela maintains its contentious assertions backed by historical agreements.
Original Source: newsday.co.tt
