The approval by the Venezuelan government of the “Law for the Defense of Essequibo,” aiming to annex a significant portion of Guyana’s territory into Venezuela, has garnered strong condemnation from both the Organization of American States (OAS) and the Caribbean Community (CARICOM).
In a recent press release, the OAS secretariat denounced this move as a blatant violation of international law and indicative of Venezuela’s dictatorial tendencies. It emphasized the importance of upholding principles such as refraining from aggression, respecting arbitration awards, and condemning unilateral actions in resolving bilateral disputes.
“International Law condemns the crime of aggression, condemns the threat of aggression, condemns unilateral actions to resolve bilateral problems, condemns non-compliance and violation of current Arbitration Awards, and as an international community, we must condemn bellicose attitudes and intimidation of countries and international actors,” the OAS affirmed.
Additionally, the OAS reaffirmed its support for Guyana and commended the country’s adherence to the jurisdiction of the International Court of Justice.
Similarly, CARICOM expressed its disapproval of Venezuela’s expansionist agenda, characterizing the adoption of the “Organic Law” as precipitous and potentially dangerous. The community highlighted the infringement upon international law and the undermining of regional peace and stability. It urged Venezuela to refrain from further provocative actions and emphasized the importance of dialogue and adherence to international law in resolving disputes.
It also noted that in the process, Venezuela has “offended the Joint Declaration of Argyle for Dialogue and Peace between Guyana and Venezuela” of 14 December 2023; (ii) subverted international law; and (iii) signaled a possible embrace of an unworthy aggression to achieve its own articulated goals or purposes.”
In a recent interview with Trinidad and Tobago’s CNC3 Morning Brew, President Irfaan Ali reiterated his government’s commitment to regional peace and adherence to international law. He also emphasized the desire for a stable and secure region where countries can enjoy peace and prosperity.
“Guyana’s only ambition and intention is to promote peace. Our concern is to ensure also that whatever we build integrates the countries so that we can have integrated systems and economies. We want a region that is stable and secure; a region in which the people of our countries can enjoy peace and stability,” the president said.
The international community has also continued its condemnation of Venezuela’s actions while underscoring the importance of upholding international law and peaceful resolution of disputes each time that country does something to further escalate tensions.
