Photograph of a painting with a map of Venezuela to which the Essequibo is added, during an unveiling ceremony at the Federal Legislative Palace, headquarters of the National Assembly / Photo: EFE
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The Guyana government is not expected to approve oil exploration work in waters near Venezuela until the ruling by the International Court of Justice (CIJ).
The territorial claim between the parties could reach a final point from the judicial body in the coming weeks. After this, and If the ruling is favorable, Guyana will activate oil works.
The situation that has developed a diplomatic conflict between the parties revolves around a space located north of a line projected 70 degrees offshore from Punta Playa on the border with Guyana.
However, the crisis could spread, especially if Venezuela does not succeed, since Since the administration of Nicolás Maduro it has been pointed out repeatedly that rather than adhering to what the ICJ indicates, they prefer to adhere to the Geneva Agreement.
For his part, the Minister of Natural Resources of Guyana, Vickram Bharrat, stated that activities linked to oil extraction will be paralyzed until the entity makes its announcement.
While, Miraflores aims for a victory in its claim that Essequibo would addwhich makes up around two-thirds of Guyana’s land territory, to the Venezuelan map.
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**Interview with Dr. Elena Morales, International Relations Expert**
**Interviewer:** Thank you for joining us today, Dr. Morales. The recent actions by the Venezuelan government regarding the Essequibo region have certainly caught global attention. Can you explain what has transpired recently?
**Dr. Morales:** Thank you for having me. In early December 2023, the Venezuelan government unveiled a new map that controversially includes the Essequibo region, an area claimed by both Venezuela and Guyana. This action follows a recent referendum in which the Venezuelan government cited a “mandato popular” to take administrative steps towards claiming the territory.
**Interviewer:** What are the implications of changing the official map of Venezuela to include Essequibo?
**Dr. Morales:** This move is significant as it reflects Venezuela’s ongoing claims over the territory, which covers approximately 160,000 square kilometers. The depiction of Essequibo on official maps can intensify disputes with Guyana and disrupt diplomatic relations. Furthermore, it signals a potential shift in domestic policy that aligns with nationalistic sentiments within Venezuela.
**Interviewer:** How might this affect regional stability in South America?
**Dr. Morales:** The situation is delicate. Guyana’s government has vehemently opposed these claims, and they may seek international arbitration, which could lead to tensions escalating in the region. Such developments often attract the interest of external powers, complicating the geopolitical landscape further.
**Interviewer:** Prime Minister Ralph Gonsalves of Saint Vincent and the Grenadines has been vocal about his support for Guyana in this dispute. How does regional support play into these types of conflicts?
**Dr. Morales:** Solidarity among Caribbean nations can be a powerful tool in international disputes. Prime Minister Gonsalves’ support for Guyana could galvanize other Caribbean nations to take a stand, potentially leading to a collective regional response to Venezuelan actions. It reflects shared interests in promoting respect for territorial integrity within the Caribbean Community (CARICOM).
**Interviewer:** Lastly, what role does international law play in resolving disputes like these?
**Dr. Morales:** International law, particularly principles regarding territorial sovereignty and conflict resolution mechanisms such as the International Court of Justice, will be crucial in resolving disputes over Essequibo. Guyana has previously sought legal recourse to address these claims, and a favorable ruling could reinforce their territorial rights while pressuring Venezuela to comply with international norms.
**Interviewer:** Thank you, Dr. Morales, for your insights on this complex issue. It’s a situation that many will be watching closely.
**Dr. Morales:** Thank you for having me; this is indeed a critical moment for both Venezuela and Guyana that warrants continuous attention.
