Venezuela’s inauguration of a bridge on Ankoko Island has heightened diplomatic tensions with Guyana, which claims the territory. President Irfaan Ali condemned the act as an illegitimate claim and reiterated Guyana’s commitment to seek resolution through international law. A formal protest was issued by Foreign Affairs Minister Hugh Hilton Todd, signaling a strong stance against Venezuela’s provocations.
Diplomatic relations between Venezuela and Guyana have sharply deteriorated following the recent inauguration of a bridge on Ankoko Island by Caracas. This bridge ceremony has incited strong condemnation from Guyana, as the island has been a contested territory since Venezuela seized its portion in 1966. Guyana’s President Irfaan Ali denounced the bridge’s construction as an “illegitimate claim” over its land. Furthermore, Foreign Affairs Minister Hugh Hilton Todd lodged a formal protest and emphasized Guyana’s resolve to address the issue through international legal frameworks.
During the Guyana Defence Force’s Christmas Luncheon at Base Camp Ayanganna, President Ali reiterated that Guyana shall not tolerate provocations from Venezuela regarding this matter. His firm stance highlights the ongoing tensions and the importance of upholding sovereignty in the face of external claims. The situation continues to be monitored closely as diplomatic discussions unfold.
The tensions surrounding Ankoko Island pertain to a long-standing territorial dispute between Venezuela and Guyana, rooted in historical claims and geopolitical dynamics in South America. The island, partially occupied by both nations, has been a flashpoint since Venezuela’s territorial claim emerged. In response to the inauguration of the bridge—which Venezuela considers a means of enhancing accessibility to the island—Guyana perceives this as a further attempt by Venezuela to assert its dominance over the disputed territory. The issue emphasizes the broader context of border disputes in the region and showcases the fragility of diplomatic relations between the two countries.
In conclusion, the inauguration of the bridge on Ankoko Island by Venezuela not only exacerbates existing diplomatic tensions with Guyana but also underscores a historical context of territorial disputes that remain unresolved. President Irfaan Ali’s condemnation and the formal protest from Guyana’s Foreign Affairs Minister stress the commitment of the government to safeguard its sovereignty and pursue legitimate resolutions through international avenues. This incident may impact future relations and diplomatic negotiations as both nations navigate these complex territorial issues.
Original Source: www.stabroeknews.com
