President Dr. Irfaan Ali addressed a national security incident involving a Venezuelan vessel in Guyana’s exclusive economic zone (EEZ). He emphasized diplomacy, military readiness, and international support addressing the situation with caution and seriousness. The government is preparing to escalate the matter to international courts while maintaining open communication with both national and regional partners.
In a critical moment for national security, President Dr. Irfaan Ali delivered a live statement addressing reports of a Venezuelan vessel encroaching on Guyana’s exclusive economic zone (EEZ). Accompanied by Prime Minister Brigadier (retired) Mark Phillips and Chief of Defence Staff Brigadier Omar Khan, he outlined the vessel’s activities and reiterated Guyana’s ownership of its maritime assets.
The vessel in question was identified as a Venezuelan Coast Guard patrol ship, which allegedly operated near Guyana’s offshore facilities, including Prosperity and the Floating Production Storage and Offloading (FPSO) units. President Ali asserted that these facilities are operating lawfully within Guyana’s EEZ and firmly rejected the Venezuelan claims of operating in “disputed international waters.”
In response to the situation, President Ali expressed his commitment to addressing the crisis with diligence and caution, emphasizing that the government is not reacting impulsively. He stated, “I assure you that my government is not acting precipitously; we are addressing this situation with seriousness and responsibility.”
The government initiated diplomatic action by summoning the Venezuelan ambassador to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs to express strong protests. The President confirmed, “We have already summoned the Venezuelan ambassador to his office, registering our strong protests,” and instructed Guyana’s embassy in Caracas to make a formal protest to the Venezuelan government.
Additionally, President Ali revealed that Guyana is reaching out to significant global and regional partners, including the United Kingdom, France, the United States, and CARICOM. He noted, “Our international partners have responded positively,” reflecting the cooperation and solidarity with Guyana’s stance.
In regional coordination efforts, President Ali highlighted the involvement of CARICOM’s chairperson Mia Mottley in discussions with Venezuela. He also informed that Prime Minister Ralph Gonsalves of St. Vincent and the Grenadines had been updated on the incident, and the Leader of the Opposition, Aubrey Norton, has been briefed as well.
Emphasizing Guyana’s commitment to peace, stability, and sovereignty, President Ali stated, “Guyana remains committed to peace and the rule of law. We will continue to pursue diplomatic solutions, but we will not tolerate threats to our territorial integrity.” He revealed that air assets were deployed in the EEZ as part of the military response and that the Defence Board would convene to monitor the evolving situation.
Looking forward, the government intends to escalate the issue to international courts and will formally notify the International Court of Justice. President Ali disclosed that legal teams are preparing documentation for submission to international organizations like the UN, OAS, and CARICOM.
The President concluded by reaffirming that the government is closely monitoring developments and prioritizing national sovereignty. He assured the public of ongoing government engagement and promised further updates as the situation progresses, stating, “I want to assure the people of Guyana that the government is acting with diligence and resolve.”
In summary, President Dr. Irfaan Ali’s address underscored the serious nature of a Venezuelan vessel’s incursion into Guyana’s EEZ. The government is taking decisive diplomatic and military measures to assert its territorial integrity while pursuing international support and legal avenues. Citizens are assured of the government’s commitment to peace and stability as further developments unfold.
Original Source: newsroom.gy
