The Government of Guyana has informed the international community of Venezuela’s latest statement claiming Guyana’s territory, describing the statements as a threat not only to Guyana, but also to regional and international peace and security.

Venezuela has rejected Guyana’s move to auction off additional oil blocks which are located in Guyana’s own exclusive economic zone. Venezuela continues to claim the Essequibo region.

The Government of Guyana said it has no doubt that under international law, the waters in question form part of Guyana’s Exclusive Economic Zone, where Guyana alone enjoys sovereign rights over the resources in the sea and beneath the seabed.

According to the statement from the Guyana Government, if Venezuela disputes Guyana’s Exclusive Economic Zone, then it is obliged by the United Nations Charter and the Charter of the OAS to employ only peaceful means to seek a resolution.

The Government said both Charters prohibit the threat or use of force against another State.

“Guyana therefore implores Venezuela to honour its obligation to pursue only peaceful means to settle any dispute it may have with Guyana, including adjudication before the International Court Justice, where Guyana has sought confirmation of the land boundary between the two States. Allowing the Court to decide any other dispute between the par es would ensure a resolution that is peaceful, equitable and in accordance with international law”, the statement said.

On Tuesday, President Irfaan Ali said Guyana reserves the right to pursue economic development activities in any portion of its sovereign territory or any appurtenant maritime territories, adding that any unilateral attempt by Venezuela to restrict the exercise by Guyana of its sovereignty and sovereign rights will be wholly inconsistent with the Geneva Agreement and the rule of international law.

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