Prime Minister Dr. Ralph Gonsalves of St. Vincent and the Grenadines predicts sustained tensions between Guyana and Venezuela even after the ICJ ruling regarding the Essequibo region. Recent Venezuelan naval activity has raised alarms, prompting international calls for restraint. The Argyle Declaration is viewed as vital for peace, yet ongoing provocation threatens stability.
Dr. Ralph Gonsalves, Prime Minister of St. Vincent and the Grenadines, expressed his belief that tensions will persist between Guyana and Venezuela, regardless of the outcome of the International Court of Justice (ICJ) ruling regarding the Essequibo region. During his weekly radio program, he emphasized that disputes may endure, stating, “Even after the ICJ delivers its judgement whichever way it goes, you still going to have tensions.” While acknowledging a lack of current information on the litigation process, Gonsalves recognized the ICJ’s timeline for delivering its verdict.
The recent actions concerning a Venezuelan naval vessel near Guyana’s oil assets have heightened concerns. Guyana has notified CARICOM and the international community about this provocation, prompting reactions from various entities, including the United States, France, CARICOM, the Commonwealth, and the OAS, all urging Venezuela to refrain from aggressive actions toward ExxonMobil’s operations.
Gonsalves clarified that the oil vessels are operating within Guyana’s jurisdiction, highlighting the necessity of the Argyle Declaration to ensure cooperation among stakeholders. He stressed the urgent need for a meeting to avoid further incursions, asserting that the Argyle Declaration has played a significant role in reducing tensions. He mentioned, “A number of persons took the Argyle declaration for a joke. Argyle declaration and the mechanisms therein have assisted in keeping the peace and lessening tensions.”
The ongoing ICJ proceedings center around the Arbitral Award of October 3, 1899, with the court cautioning Venezuela against any moves to annex Essequibo. In response to the recent incursions, Guyana has approached the ICJ for provisional orders, including stopping Venezuela from holding elections for a Governor in Essequibo.
In summary, the Prime Minister of St. Vincent and the Grenadines anticipates continuing tensions between Guyana and Venezuela despite the impending ICJ ruling. Ongoing military provocation and the necessity of diplomatic dialogue underscore the fragile situation in the region. The Argyle Declaration remains a critical framework for peace, yet challenges persist as both nations navigate their complex relationship.
Original Source: newssourcegy.com
