President Dr. Irfaan Ali confirmed that a Venezuelan Coast Guard vessel entered Guyana’s EEZ, prompting strong diplomatic protests and military readiness. The government is engaging international partners and plans to escalate the situation to international courts to protect its sovereignty. President Ali reassured the public of ongoing diligence and cautious response to ensure territorial integrity.
In a crucial national security situation, President Dr. Irfaan Ali made a public address regarding a Venezuelan Coast Guard vessel that approached Guyana’s exclusive economic zone (EEZ). Accompanied by Prime Minister Mark Phillips and Chief of Defence Staff Brigadier Omar Khan, President Ali outlined the incident and the government’s response.
The Venezuelan patrol ship reportedly entered waters near Guyana’s offshore assets, including the Prosperity and FPSO, which operate legally within Guyana’s EEZ. The vessel claimed to be in “disputed international waters” but President Ali firmly rejected this assertion, emphasizing the legitimacy of Guyana’s maritime boundaries under international law.
During his address, President Ali reassured the public that the government is handling the matter with responsibility and caution. He stated, “We are addressing this situation with seriousness and responsibility,” signaling that appropriate actions would be taken without hasty decisions.
In reaction to the incident, the Guyanese government summoned the Venezuelan ambassador to express strong objections. The President confirmed, “We have already summoned the Venezuelan ambassador” and indicated that the embassy in Caracas is tasked with lodging a formal protest with Venezuelan authorities.
Additionally, the government is actively engaging international partners, including the UK, France, the US, and CARICOM, seeking support for their stance. President Ali noted the positive responses from these global entities and highlighted CARICOM’s involvement through Mia Mottley’s dialogue with Venezuela.
The public was informed that the Defence Board would monitor the situation closely, with military assets already deployed in the EEZ. President Ali revealed that air assets and the Coast Guard are actively patrolling the area as a precautionary measure.
Looking forward, the government plans to escalate the situation to international courts while preparing documentation for bodies like the UN and the OAS. President Ali reiterated Guyana’s commitment to protecting its sovereignty, stating that strong actions will be pursued against any threats to territorial integrity.
Concluding his address, President Ali assured the populace that the government remains diligent and attentive to developments, stating, “I want to assure the people of Guyana that the government is acting with diligence and resolve,” and further updates will follow as the situation unfolds.
In summary, President Ali’s address highlighted the serious national security issue posed by a Venezuelan vessel approaching Guyana’s EEZ. The government is taking diplomatic and military actions to protect its territorial integrity while engaging international partners for support. The emphasis on international law underscores the government’s commitment to addressing the matter responsibly and thoroughly, with forthcoming actions to escalate the situation legally.
Original Source: newsroom.gy
