Venezuela’s latest threats against Guyana were brought to the world stage by its President, Dr. Mohamed Irfaan Ali who reaffirmed that his government remains resolute in its bid to resolve the border controversy with the Bolivarian Republic in an amicable manner.
“Just last night, Guyana received a very threatening message from Venezuela. It came in the form of a Communique attacking Guyana for putting certain oil blocks in our sovereign waters up for bid. Guyana considers this a threat to regional and international peace and security, as well as to Guyana’s investment partners,” the Guyanese President said in his address to the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) on Sept. 20.
Ali called on the Nicolas Maduro-led Venezuela to honour its obligations under the Charter to pursue only “peaceful means” to settle any controversy it may have with Guyana, including adjudication before the International Court of Justice (ICJ). Proceedings in this regard are already in process.
He added that “Allowing the Court to decide would ensure a resolution that is peaceful, equitable and in accordance with international law”, citing that his country will “spare no effort in defending its sovereignty and territorial integrity.”
Over the past 24-hours, Venezuela has issued two communique after news of the closure of Guyana’s bid round. One included a threat to potential investors.
Their statements have been outright condemned by Guyana’s government and Opposition.
Guyana was also supported by the Secretary General of the Organisation of American States (OAS) Luis Almagro, who deemed the statements by Venezuela “intimidation tactics”.
