In a display of solidarity, the Caribbean Community (CARICOM) has issued a strong defense of the sovereignty of the Cooperative Republic of Guyana, taking aim at recent provocations from the Bolivarian Republic of Venezuela. Venezuela, over the past week, has issued a series of threats to Guyana and oil companies participating in the country’s maiden offshore bid round.
In an official statement, CARICOM stated, “The Caribbean Community notes with grave concern the contents of a Communique emanating from the Bolivarian Republic of Venezuela… CARICOM views the stated intention of Venezuela to ‘apply all the necessary measures’ as a threat of the use of force contrary to international law.”
In a recent address to Venezuela’s National Assembly, Jorge Rodriguez, called for a referendum on how to move forward with the country’s claim for Guyana’s Essequibo region, stating, “When one says the sun of Venezuela rises in the Essequibo, it’s because they are willing to even give their life to defend a territory that belongs to the sons and daughters of Venezuela and of the Bolivarian Republic of Venezuela.” The House approved the motion unanimously.
However, CARICOM remains firm in its stance, emphasizing that the Latin American and Caribbean nations have held a “long-standing position that our Region must remain a Zone of Peace.”
President of Guyana, Dr. Mohamed Irfaan Ali, highlighted the threat in his September 20 address to the United Nations General Assembly, considering it detrimental to peace in the region. Guyana’s Parliamentary Opposition has rallied behind the government. Vice President, Dr. Bharrat Jagdeo, asserted, “This is our sovereign Guyanese territory,” indicating a clear intention that Guyana will not be deterred from awarding oil blocks as it wraps up its auction process.
Furthermore, CARICOM highlighted its unequivocal backing for Guyana, stating, “The Caribbean Community reiterates its full and unequivocal support for the sovereignty and territorial integrity of the Cooperative Republic of Guyana, including its right to peacefully develop the resources of its territory.”
The geopolitical landscape remains charged as the international community keeps a close eye on developments. The Organisation of American States (OAS) and the United States have publicly expressed their support for Guyana.
