President Dr. Irfaan Ali has reassured Guyanese citizens that the government is addressing the incursion of a Venezuelan military vessel into Guyana’s maritime territory on Saturday morning.
During a live broadcast on his Facebook page, President Ali disclosed that at approximately 7:00 AM, a Venezuelan armed patrol vessel entered Guyana’s waters, approaching various assets in the Stabroek Block, including the Floating Production Storage and Offloading (FPSO) vessel, Prosperity.
President Ali disclosed that the Venezuelan vessel transmitted a message to the FPSO, claiming that it was “operating in disputed international waters” before continuing its course in a southwesterly direction.
President Ali, however, was unequivocal in reaffirming Guyana’s sovereignty. “Guyana’s maritime boundaries are recognized under international law, and this incursion is a matter of grave concern,” he stated.
He added, “I assure you that my government is not acting precipitously. We are addressing the situation with the seriousness and responsibility it requires.”
President Ali revealed that the government has already summoned the Venezuelan ambassador to register a formal protest.
He further stated that Guyana has engaged international allies, all of whom have responded with strong support. “I’m pleased to also communicate to you that we have reached out to all our international partners, and all our international partners have responded positively.
“These include the UK, France, the U.S., RSS, CARICOM, and we continue to work with other neighbors, Brazil, at the military level and at the level of the state,” President Ali assured.
He added that later today, the Government of Guyana will officially notify the International Court of Justice (ICJ), the Secretary-General of the United Nations, the Commonwealth, and the Organization of American States.
Additionally, President Ali informed the nation that he has briefed Opposition Leader Aubrey Norton and will be meeting with him later today for further discussions.
Reaffirming Guyana’s commitment to peace and diplomacy, President Ali declared, “We will continue to pursue diplomatic solutions, but we will not tolerate threats to our territorial integrity.”
The Guyana-Venezuela border controversy remains before the ICJ, as Venezuela continues to claim Guyana’s Essequibo region. Meanwhile, Guyanese authorities remain on high alert, with security and foreign affairs teams closely monitoring all developments.
