Aubrey Norton urges strengthening of Guyana’s military due to Venezuelan aggression, including territorial claims and recent incursions. He advocates for increased military resources, enhanced training, and technological improvements. Norton critiques government actions regarding Venezuelan migration and stresses the need for proactive measures to deter aggression and seek international support.
Aubrey Norton, the Leader of the Opposition in Guyana, is advocating for a significant enhancement of the country’s military capabilities due to rising tensions with Venezuela, which continues to claim Guyanese territory. He highlights various aggressive actions by Venezuela over the last five years, including constructing a bridge on Ankoko Island and conducting a referendum on the Essequibo Region, which violate International Court of Justice (ICJ) provisional orders.
Recent events include the incursion of a Venezuelan Coast Guard vessel into Guyanese waters and Venezuela’s plans to hold elections for a Governor of the Essequibo region. During a press conference, Norton emphasized the need for Guyana to strengthen its military forces, including purchasing more weapons and intensifying jungle warfare training akin to levels seen in the 1970s, ensuring the country can fend off any potential invasions effectively.
Norton expressed concern over the government’s handling of Venezuelan migration, warning that it could pose security risks. He criticized the administration for treating Venezuelan migration as a mere election issue by granting ID cards without assessing the broader implications. For Guyana to be adequately prepared for further aggression, Norton asserts the necessity for improved technological capabilities for monitoring its airspace and waters.
He believes that Guyana has the financial means to boost its military readiness significantly. Following a recent Venezuelan incursion, Norton met with President Irfaan Ali but refrained from discussing government strategies regarding the situation. However, he conveyed disappointment over the lack of action regarding previous recommendations from the Opposition, such as deploying envoys to create awareness about the territorial controversy in Latin America, and the need for a robust public relations strategy at the local level to educate citizens on the matter.
Norton concluded that although the ICJ may rule in Guyana’s favor, that alone will not deter Venezuela’s aggression. He asserted the importance of proactive measures to discourage Venezuelan actions while seeking support from international partners.
Aubrey Norton calls for a significant reinforcement of Guyana’s military due to escalating threats from Venezuela, including territorial claims and breaching international orders. He emphasizes the need for enhanced military equipment, personnel training, and technological capabilities. Norton also critiques the government’s handling of Venezuelan migration and their failure to act on previous recommendations to bolster Guyana’s geopolitical standing. Ultimately, he stresses the necessity for a proactive strategy to deter further aggression from Venezuela while maintaining international relations.
Original Source: newssourcegy.com
