Guyana has formally protested to Venezuela regarding a Coast Guard incursion into its waters. The protest emphasizes Guyana’s sovereignty and adherence to international law, citing a recent International Court of Justice Order. Concerns over escalating military actions by Venezuela are raised, with Guyana reaffirming its commitment to peaceful diplomacy and engaging the international community.
The Government of Guyana has lodged a formal protest with Venezuela in response to a recent incursion by the Venezuelan Coast Guard into Guyana’s waters. The letter of protest emphasizes that all activities authorized by Guyana within its Exclusive Economic Zone are legitimate and fall within its sovereign territory as established by the Arbitral Award of 1899.
Guyana asserts its sovereignty extends 12 nautical miles into the territorial sea, with sovereign rights beyond that in its Exclusive Economic Zone and continental shelf. The Government of Guyana condemns Venezuela’s actions as provocative, posing a threat to national security and regional stability in Latin America and the Caribbean.
Further highlighting Venezuela’s obligations under international law, the letter references an Order from the International Court of Justice issued on December 1, 2023, which mandates that Venezuela refrain from any actions that may alter the current status of the disputed territory. The Government expects Venezuela to respect both parties’ sovereignty while the Court deliberates.
Guyana expressed concern about escalating tensions following Venezuela’s announcement to conduct elections in the Essequibo region, which Guyana claims as its territory. This development is viewed as contradictory to the obligation to resolve disputes peacefully and maintain mutual respect for sovereignty.
The Government described Venezuela’s military actions, including the buildup of armored vehicles and troops near the border, as aggressive and detrimental. Notably, the completion of a bridge connecting Venezuela to the contested Ankoko Island significantly enhances its military position.
Emphasizing its commitment to peaceful diplomacy, Guyana will not tolerate any annexation or military threats against its licensed activities in its maritime space. This incident has been communicated to the United Nations and other international organizations for awareness, and Guyana pledges to keep the global community informed on future developments.
The situation between Guyana and Venezuela remains tense following recent incursions by the Venezuelan Coast Guard into Guyana’s waters. The formal protest issued by Guyana underscores its adherence to international law and its sovereignty claims. With escalating military actions from Venezuela, Guyana reiterates its commitment to peaceful resolution while actively involving the international community in addressing these issues.
Original Source: newssourcegy.com
