Secretary of State Marco Rubio is visiting Guyana to extend U.S. security support amidst tensions with Venezuela. Guyana, on track to become the world’s leading oil producer per capita, will sign a memorandum of understanding for security cooperation. The U.S. aims to foster a relationship similar to that with Gulf nations, as Venezuela lays claims on Guyana’s oil-rich region. ExxonMobil’s production is projected to surge significantly, overshadowing Venezuela’s declining output.
Secretary of State Marco Rubio is scheduled to visit Guyana to extend US security support to the oil-rich nation amidst escalating tensions with Venezuela. The small South American country is on track to become the largest oil producer per capita globally, following a decade of significant oil discoveries. During his visit, Rubio aims to formalize security collaboration through a memorandum of understanding as Guyana asserts its sovereignty against Venezuela’s territorial claims.
Having met with Caribbean leaders in Jamaica prior to this visit, Rubio will also visit Suriname, also benefiting from rising oil production. The Trump administration envisions a strategic relationship with Guyana reminiscent of alliances with certain oil-rich Gulf Arab nations, which have welcomed US military presence for mutual security.
U.S. Special Envoy for Latin America, Mauricio Claver-Carone, emphasized the importance of Guyana’s security in light of threats posed by Venezuela. He stated, “The security of Guyana is a key priority for us in the same way that we have been working with countries in the Gulf states…” Claver-Carone stressed the urgency of establishing binding security cooperation with Guyana.
Guyana’s governance, led by President Irfaan Ali, shows a notable shift towards embracing defense relations with the United States, including possible joint maritime patrols. Tensions with Venezuela have escalated, particularly regarding the disputed Essequibo region rich in oil resources. Earlier in March, Guyana condemned a Venezuelan military incursion into its waters, to which Venezuela has denied any wrongdoing.
Venezuelan claims on Essequibo have been met with international rebuke, while Guyana maintains that its borders were established through an 1899 arbitration. The Trump administration views the enhancement of oil production as a cornerstone for both economic growth and security, contrasting with the previous administration’s focus on renewable energy.
ExxonMobil has emerged as a key player in Guyanese oil production, anticipating an increase to 1.3 million barrels per day by the decade’s end. This output significantly overshadows Venezuela’s dwindling oil production, which has struggled due to longstanding mismanagement and US sanctions. In response to pressures from anti-communist Latino lawmakers, the US has also curtailed operational exemptions for Chevron in Venezuela, thereby tightening sanctions against the regime.
The United States, represented by Secretary Marco Rubio, is reinforcing its commitment to Guyana’s security in light of increasing tensions with Venezuela. This partnership underscores a mutual interest in maintaining stability and fostering economic growth, particularly in the oil sector. As Guyana steps into a significant role in the global oil market, the implications of this alliance could reshape regional dynamics while addressing ongoing territorial disputes. Ultimately, the cooperation between Guyana and the US could prove essential for navigating the geopolitical challenges posed by Venezuela and global energy demands.
Original Source: www.albianews.com
