France has expressed concern over Venezuela’s military incursion into Guyana’s EEZ, calling for respect of territory as per ICJ directives. The U.S. and regional groups support Guyana’s claims. Venezuela, however, refutes these allegations, insisting on its rights to the disputed waters. The ICJ is reviewing the ongoing territorial dispute based on the 1899 Arbitral Award.
On Monday, France expressed its concerns regarding Venezuela’s military activities within Guyana’s Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ). France urged Caracas to refrain from breaching the provisional measures set forth by the International Court of Justice (ICJ) in December 2023, emphasizing the need for respect for Guyana’s sovereignty and territorial integrity.
The U.S. and regional organizations, including CARICOM and the OAS, have echoed France’s sentiments after Guyana reported a Venezuelan naval vessel near its oil assets. Such actions have raised alarms among international bodies, who assert that they threaten ExxonMobil’s operations and stability in the region.
Venezuela, however, rejected claims from Guyana’s President Irfaan Ali, labeling them as “baseless.” The Venezuelan government contended that the waters in question are disputed and not officially recognized as Guyanese territory, claiming Jurisdiction over them contrary to Guyana’s assertions.
The ongoing dispute is centered around the Arbitral Award of 1899, with both nations seeking clarification from the ICJ regarding their territorial boundaries. The case, initiated by Guyana in March 2018, remains under the court’s jurisdiction, which has affirmed its authority to address the matter.
Guyana has previously voiced serious concerns about Venezuela’s actions, deeming them violations of the Argyle Agreement and ICJ orders. This agreement, finalized in 2023, mandates that both nations avoid escalating conflicts regarding their territorial disagreements as they await an international legal resolution.
In summary, France has joined a chorus of international voices urging Venezuela to respect Guyana’s territorial integrity amidst ongoing tensions over maritime boundaries. The situation escalated with reports of Venezuelan military presence infringing on Guyanese waters. Amidst assertions and counterclaims regarding territorial rights, the ICJ is reviewing the underlying dispute stemming from the 1899 Arbitral Award, with both nations committed to resolving tensions through international law. The evolving political scenario reflects the complexities of maritime jurisdiction and international diplomacy.
Original Source: jamaica-gleaner.com
