President Dr Irfaan Ali has condemned a Venezuelan naval vessel that entered Guyana’s waters this morning, declaring that Guyana will not tolerate any threats to its territorial integrity.
At approximately 07:00h today, a Venezuelan Coast Guard vessel, identified as ABV Guaiquerí PO-11 (IMO 4695542), entered Guyana’s waters and approached a tanker near the Prosperity Floating Production Storage and Offloading vessel (FPSO) that is operating in the Stabroek Block, Offshore Guyana, by United States oil major ExxonMobil.
President Ali said the vessel transmitted via a radio message and informed the FPSO that it was operating in disputed international waters – something which the Head of State unequivocally rejected.
“Both the tanker and the FPSO Prosperity are operating lawfully within Guyana’s exclusive economic zone… Let me be unequivocal, Guyana’s maritime boundaries are recognized under international law, and this incursion is a matter of grave concern.”
The Guyanese Leader assured that his Government is not acting precipitously and is dressing this situation with the seriousness and responsibility it requires.
“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. Our security and foreign affairs teams are fully engaged, and we are closely monitoring all developments.”
Government has also informed the opposition about this development. Additionally, Guyana’s bilateral partners have also been informed and have responded “favourably”, President Ali said.
The Venezuelan Ambassador in Guyana has been summoned and Guyana has registered its strong protest and also intends to, through its Ambassador in Caracas, lodge a formal protest with the Venezuelan Government.
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