Ongoing Tensions Anticipated Post ICJ Ruling in Guyana/Venezuela Border Dispute

St. Vincent PM Ralph Gonsalves warns that tensions will persist after the ICJ ruling on the Guyana-Venezuela border dispute. He anticipates the judgment will come later this year or early next year. Meanwhile, an incident involving a Venezuelan naval vessel near Guyana’s oil assets has escalated tensions, prompting international calls for restraint. Venezuela has denied claims from Guyana regarding territorial violations, stating the waters remain undelimited under international law.

Prime Minister Ralph Gonsalves of St. Vincent and the Grenadines expressed concerns regarding the ongoing tensions that may persist after the International Court of Justice (ICJ) rules on the long-standing border dispute between Guyana and Venezuela. He stated that irrespective of the ICJ’s decision, tensions are expected to continue, highlighting the complexity of the situation.

Gonsalves, acting as an interlocutor based on the Argyle Agreement signed in December 2023, indicated that the ICJ is projected to deliver its ruling either later this year or in early 2024. He acknowledged his limited knowledge on the litigation’s progress, noting that the court requires time to compose its judgment following previous hearings.

Recent developments heightened tensions when Guyana reported the presence of a Venezuelan naval vessel near its oil assets. In response, multiple entities, including the United States, France, CARICOM, and the Organization of American States (OAS), urged Venezuela to refrain from further provocations against ExxonMobil’s Floating Production Storage and Offloading (FPSO) vessel.

Venezuela vehemently rejected statements made by Guyana’s President Irfaan Ali, claiming that they were unfounded and accusing him of dishonesty regarding the presence of Venezuelan naval units in the disputed maritime area. Caracas further asserted that the waters in question do not belong to Guyana as they have yet to be demarcated under international law.

The dispute between Guyana and Venezuela is centered on the Arbitral Award of October 3, 1899, which the ICJ is currently reviewing. The court has previously affirmed its jurisdiction over the matter and will evaluate the legitimacy of the Arbitral Award that determined their land boundary. The Essequibo region, a significant area rich in oil resources, constitutes approximately two-thirds of Guyana and is vital to its population.

In summary, Prime Minister Gonsalves foresees ongoing tensions following the ICJ’s anticipated ruling on the Guyana-Venezuela border dispute. The complex geopolitical climate has intensified following recent incidents involving Venezuelan naval forces and international calls for restraint. With the ICJ’s authority reaffirmed, the outcome of this long-standing dispute remains critical for both nations involved, particularly concerning the valuable Essequibo region.

Original Source: suntci.com