UK and France Condemn Venezuelan Incursion into Guyana’s Waters

The UK and France condemned a Venezuelan Coast Guard incursion into Guyana’s Exclusive Economic Zone, which has raised concerns over sovereignty disputes. France and the UK emphasized adherence to international law, following similar statements from the US and CARICOM, supporting Guyana’s territorial integrity amid escalating tensions in the region.

The United Kingdom and France have issued strong condemnations regarding a maritime incursion by a Venezuelan Coast Guard vessel into Guyana’s Exclusive Economic Zone on March 1, 2023. This incident, which involved the Venezuelan patrol ship approaching oil platforms in Guyanese waters, escalates the ongoing territorial dispute between Guyana and Venezuela over the resource-rich Stabroek Block oil reservoir.

France’s Ministry for Europe and Foreign Affairs expressed deep concern regarding this Venezuelan act, urging Venezuela to respect Guyana’s sovereignty and territorial integrity. Additionally, France called for adherence to international law and compliance with the December 1, 2023, order from the International Court of Justice (ICJ), which instructed Venezuela to avoid unilateral actions that could change the status quo in the Essequibo region.

The UK’s Foreign Secretary, David Lammy, characterized the Venezuelan incursion as a “serious provocative act,” pledging Britain’s unwavering support for the internationally recognized territorial boundaries of Guyana. Lammy reiterated the necessity for Venezuela to cease actions that jeopardize regional stability, affirming the importance of peaceful and lawful behavior in international relations.

These statements from the UK and France mirror earlier denunciations made by the United States and the Caribbean Community (CARICOM). U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio deemed the incident “unacceptable,” cautioning the Maduro regime against further provocations that could result in consequences. CARICOM labeled Venezuela’s maneuvers as “acts of aggression and provocation,” reaffirming their support for Guyana’s sovereignty and territorial integrity.

President of Guyana, Dr. Irfaan Ali, termed the Venezuelan incursion as a “matter of grave concern,” underlining the international acknowledgment of Guyana’s maritime boundaries. He announced the formal protest made to Venezuela and revealed that the Foreign Affairs Minister has summoned the Venezuelan Ambassador to convey Guyana’s objections. The Guyana Coast Guard has also increased patrols in the Stabroek Block region.

The incident has raised alarm among the personnel stationed on the oil platforms, particularly the FPSO Prosperity, which was reportedly approached by the Venezuelan vessel. According to reports, the Venezuelan Coast Guard issued a radio message claiming that operations were occurring in disputed waters, a narrative that Guyana has firmly rejected. This incursion is part of a longstanding border dispute focused on the oil-rich Essequibo region, which constitutes nearly two-thirds of Guyana’s territory and is under examination by the International Court of Justice for a resolution.

In summary, the recent incursion by a Venezuelan Coast Guard vessel into Guyana’s Exclusive Economic Zone has prompted significant international condemnation, particularly from the UK and France. The situation underscores the enduring territorial dispute over the Essequibo region, with multiple nations emphasizing support for Guyana’s sovereignty. The continuing tensions call for adherence to international law and peaceful resolution through diplomatic channels.

Original Source: www.caribbeannationalweekly.com