France voiced its concerns about Venezuela’s military incursion in Guyana’s Exclusive Economic Zone, reinforcing international calls for respect towards Guyana’s sovereignty. The U.S. and other international bodies have warned against continued Venezuelan provocations, while Venezuela dismissed Guyana’s allegations regarding territorial violations. The dispute over territorial claims continues as both countries engage with the ICJ to resolve the longstanding conflict stemming from the 1899 Arbitral Award.
On Monday, France added its voice to those expressing alarm over Venezuela’s recent military actions within Guyana’s Exclusive Economic Zone. Paris urged Caracas to avoid repeating such provocations, adhering to the provisional measures set by the International Court of Justice (ICJ) in 2023. France emphasized the necessity of respecting Guyana’s sovereignty and the principles of international law, specifically reinforcing the ICJ’s request to refrain from unilateral actions in the Essequibo region.
Guyana had raised concerns over the weekend after a Venezuelan naval vessel was spotted near its oil installations for approximately four hours. In response, international entities, including the United States, CARICOM, the Commonwealth, and the Organization of American States (OAS), have urged Venezuela to cease any further threats against ExxonMobil’s Floating Production, Storage, and Offloading (FPSO) vessel. The U.S. cautioned that continued provocations would lead to repercussions for the Maduro regime while reaffirming support for Guyana’s territorial claims.
In contrast, Venezuela has rejected President Irfaan Ali’s statements, labeling them as “baseless remarks”. Caracas refuted allegations of naval encroachments, asserting that those waters are still undetermined maritime zones as per international law. The Venezuelan Offshore Patrol vessel communicated with the FPSO Prosperity, claims its operations occurred in territories still subject to dispute.
Currently, both countries are embroiled in a case before the ICJ regarding the validity of the 1899 Arbitral Award that defined their land boundaries. Guyana initiated the case in March 2018, seeking a ruling from the ICJ on this long-standing territorial issue. The court has acknowledged its jurisdiction and will adjudicate based on the merits of the case.
Earlier this year, Guyana expressed significant worries over actions and communications from the Venezuelan government, which it sees as breaches of the Argyle Agreement and a binding order from the ICJ effective December 2023. This agreement, established in St Vincent and the Grenadines, mandates both nations to avoid escalating any territorial disputes or military actions that could exacerbate tensions in disputed areas until resolved through international law.
France’s recent expression of concern over Venezuela’s military actions reflects a growing international consensus on the need for adherence to international law regarding territorial integrity. As tensions rise over the disputed Essequibo region, the commitment of both nations to respect ICJ rulings and previously established agreements remains crucial for regional stability. The ongoing situation underscores the complexities of territorial disputes in international relations and the necessity for diplomatic resolutions.
Original Source: jamaica-gleaner.com
