Gonsalves Foresees Tensions Persisting After ICJ Ruling in Guyana/Venezuela Dispute

Prime Minister Dr. Ralph Gonsalves of St Vincent warns that tensions between Guyana and Venezuela will persist following the ICJ ruling on their border dispute. He acknowledges uncertainty regarding the timeline for the court’s judgment. Recent provocations by Venezuela highlight the ongoing tensions, with opposing claims from both nations regarding territorial rights.

Dr. Ralph Gonsalves, the Prime Minister of St Vincent and the Grenadines, has indicated that tensions between Guyana and Venezuela will persist even after the International Court of Justice (ICJ) issues its ruling concerning their longstanding border dispute. Gonsalves stated, “Whichever way they go, you’re still going to have tensions.”

As an interlocutor under the Argyle Agreement, which was established between the nations in December 2023, Gonsalves noted that the ruling from the ICJ may be anticipated either later this year or early next year. However, he admitted uncertainty regarding the current progress of the litigation.

Recently, tensions heightened as Guyana reported the presence of a Venezuelan naval vessel near its oil assets. This prompted responses from several international bodies including the United States, France, CARICOM, and the Organization of American States (OAS), urging Venezuela to refrain from further provocations.

In contrast, the Venezuelan government has rejected Guyana’s President Irfaan Ali’s allegations, labeling them as unfounded and misrepresentative of the situation. Venezuela asserts that the waters in question are not part of Guyana’s territory since they remain subject to maritime delimitation under international law.

The ongoing legal case concerns the Arbitral Award of October 3, 1899, with the ICJ previously affirming its jurisdiction over the matter. This case, initiated by Guyana in March 2018, seeks to validate this award, which established the land boundary between the two nations. The court is set to deliberate on the merits of the case, particularly focusing on the status of the Essequibo region, a valuable area rich in resources.

In summary, tensions between Guyana and Venezuela are expected to endure despite the impending judgment from the International Court of Justice regarding their border dispute. Both nations maintain opposing narratives, and the situation is exacerbated by recent provocations at sea. The ICJ’s ruling will ultimately play a critical role in shaping the future relationship between the two countries, though substantial challenges remain.

Original Source: www.jamaicaobserver.com