St. Vincent PM Dr. Ralph Gonsalves meets with Venezuelan President Maduro to address tensions with Guyana over a border dispute. Escalating tensions arise from a Venezuelan naval incursion into Guyanese waters, prompting international condemnation and calls for diplomacy. Both nations have committed to non-aggression through the Argyle Declaration, yet tensions remain high amid ongoing violations of international orders.
The Government of St. Vincent and the Grenadines has confirmed that Prime Minister Dr. Ralph Gonsalves is engaged in diplomatic discussions with Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro regarding escalating tensions with Guyana over a border dispute. Following his arrival in Venezuela, Dr. Gonsalves is scheduled to meet with President Maduro today, emphasizing the need for diplomatic dialogue and restraint.
In a statement issued earlier today, Prime Minister Gonsalves urged both nations to avoid conflict, warning that a military escalation could significantly impact the economic and social stability of both countries, potentially leading to a humanitarian crisis in the Latin America and Caribbean regions.
Tensions have surged following a recent incursion by a Venezuelan naval vessel into Guyana’s territorial waters, which resulted in the Venezuelan military questioning oil ship captains about their operations. Guyana’s government responded with heightened surveillance and alerted the international community to these aggressive actions. In reaction to this serious escalation, President Irfaan Ali condemned the Venezuelan Government’s behavior during a national address.
International entities, including the US, UK, CARICOM, The Commonwealth, and the OAS, have publicly condemned Venezuela’s actions. Prime Minister Gonsalves affirmed that the oil operations are indeed within Guyana’s waters, while also expressing concern that tensions might persist despite the International Court of Justice’s forthcoming ruling on the longstanding border dispute case initiated by Guyana to confirm the 1899 settlement.
The Argyle Declaration, established after a December meeting between President Ali and President Maduro, commits both nations to refrain from threats or use of force. The International Court of Justice, in December, also imposed provisional measures that prevent Venezuela from actions that alter the status quo in the Essequibo region, which Guyana administers. Nevertheless, Guyana has accused Venezuela of ignoring the Court’s orders and the guidelines set by the Argyle Declaration following provocative military actions.
In light of these issues, President Ali has stated that he will not engage in further discussions with President Maduro while these violations continue.
The diplomatic engagement between St. Vincent’s Prime Minister and Venezuela’s President seeks to mitigate escalating tensions between Guyana and Venezuela regarding a border dispute. Continued violations of international agreements by Venezuela raise serious concerns that could lead to broader regional instability. The international community’s response highlights the pressing need for a peaceful resolution to prevent potential humanitarian crises as Guyana navigates these challenging geopolitical waters.
Original Source: newssourcegy.com
