Secretary of State Marco Rubio’s upcoming visit to Guyana will establish US security cooperation, responding to Venezuelan territorial claims. Guyana is set to become a leading oil producer globally. This partnership reflects US prioritization of regional stability and strategic interests in the context of Venezuela’s threats.
US Secretary of State Marco Rubio is set to visit Guyana to extend US security assurances to the oil-rich nation amid escalating tensions with neighboring Venezuela. Guyana, having discovered substantial oil reserves, is projected to become the world’s leading oil producer per capita, surpassing Qatar and Kuwait. During his visit, Rubio will sign a memorandum of understanding to formalize security cooperation with Guyana, emphasizing the United States’ commitment to the region’s stability.
Rubio’s trip follows discussions with Caribbean countries in Jamaica and includes a subsequent stop in Suriname, where oil production is also increasing. The US aims to establish a relationship with Guyana similar to its partnerships with Gulf states, providing security against external threats like Venezuela. Mauricio Claver-Carone, the US special envoy for Latin America, highlighted the priority of Guyana’s security, particularly in light of threats posed by Venezuela.
Guyana’s President Irfaan Ali, facing an upcoming election, has welcomed increased defense collaboration with the US, which includes joint maritime patrols. Venezuela’s President Nicolas Maduro has claimed the Essequibo region of Guyana, an area rich in oil. Earlier this month, Guyana condemned Venezuela for allegedly violating its territorial waters, a claim Venezuela disputed while seeking diplomatic discussions.
This territorial dispute stems from the border established by an arbitration panel in 1899, recognized internationally, versus Venezuela’s historical claims based on boundaries drawn in the 18th century. The Trump administration prioritizes boosting oil production in Guyana, diverging from former President Biden’s focus on renewable energy to combat climate change. The outlook for Guyanese oil production continues to rise, led by ExxonMobil, which expects substantial increases in daily barrel output by 2030, contrasting sharply with Venezuela’s declining oil industry due to past mismanagement and sanctions.
In conclusion, the United States, through Secretary Rubio’s visit, aims to enhance security collaboration with Guyana amidst rising tensions with Venezuela over territorial claims. Guyana’s burgeoning oil industry positions it as a critical player in global energy production while attracting US interest. This development underlines the intersection of geopolitics, energy security, and regional stability in the face of Venezuelan aggression.
Original Source: www.bssnews.net
