Ongoing Tensions Expected Between Guyana and Venezuela Post-ICJ Judgment

Dr. Ralph Gonsalves predicts persistent tensions between Guyana and Venezuela after the ICJ ruling on Essequibo. He highlights recent Venezuelan provocations near Guyana’s oil assets and underscores the significance of the Argyle Declaration in managing these tensions. Guyana is also pursuing additional legal measures from the ICJ regarding the ongoing disputes.

The Prime Minister of St. Vincent and the Grenadines, Dr. Ralph Gonsalves, anticipates that tensions between Guyana and Venezuela will persist following the International Court of Justice (ICJ) ruling in their ongoing dispute regarding the Essequibo region. During his weekly radio program, Gonsalves expressed his belief that the situation will remain fraught regardless of the ICJ’s decision, citing a lack of knowledge regarding the current litigation status.

He reported that recently, Guyana alerted the Caribbean Community (CARICOM) and the broader international community about a Venezuelan naval vessel’s proximity to its oil assets. In light of this situation, several entities, including the United States and CARICOM, have urged Venezuela to refrain from further provocations against ExxonMobil’s operational vessels in Guyana.

Dr. Gonsalves clarified the jurisdictional authority of Guyana over its oil operations, asserting that appropriate actions were taken following the incident to uphold the Argyle Declaration’s provisions. He emphasized the need for a renewed meeting among stakeholders to prevent future incursions into Guyanese waters while defending the Argyle Declaration’s effectiveness in mitigating tensions, despite skepticism from some quarters.

The ongoing legal matter before the ICJ pertains to the validity of the 1899 Arbitral Award, with the court having cautioned Venezuela against any annexation efforts regarding Essequibo. Following recent Venezuelan incursions, Guyana has sought additional provisional measures from the ICJ, including requests to halt an election planned by Venezuela for a Governor of Essequibo.

In summary, Dr. Ralph Gonsalves projects that Guyana and Venezuela will continue to experience heightened tensions even post-ICJ judgment. His concerns are amplified by recent provocative actions from Venezuela near Guyanese waters. Despite skepticism surrounding the Argyle Declaration, Gonsalves reiterates its role in peacekeeping amid ongoing territorial disputes, as both nations await the ICJ’s ruling regarding their historical claims.

Original Source: newssourcegy.com