The Government of France has expressed grave concern over the incursion of a Venezuelan military vessel into Guyanese waters on Saturday, urging the Bolivarian Republic to respect Guyana’s sovereignty and territorial integrity.
France is the latest foreign ally to lend its voice in support of Guyana.
In a statement today, France called on the Nicolás Maduro regime to respect Guyana’s sovereignty and territorial integrity, adhere to the principles of international law, and comply with the order issued by the International Court of Justice on December 1, 2023. The ICJ ruling states that Venezuela must refrain from any unilateral action that could alter the existing situation off the coast of Essequibo.
The Commonwealth of Nations, the Caribbean Community (CARICOM), the US Bureau of Western Hemisphere Affairs, the Organisation of American States (OAS), the United States, and the United Kingdom have all expressed full support for Guyana’s sovereignty and its right to defend itself against aggression.
Locally, the Private Sector Commission (PSC), the Guyana Manufacturing & Services Association (GMSA), the Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GCCI), along with several political parties and prominent organisations, have strongly condemned the Venezuelan intrusion and expressed their full support for the Government of Guyana.
The US Bureau of Western Hemisphere Affairs has already warned that there would be consequences for the Maduro administration if it continues to intimidate Guyana and its offshore oil and gas assets in the Stabroek Block.
Last year, France offered Guyana technological and human resource assistance to strengthen its capacity to protect its territory.
Head of the French Diplomatic Bureau in Guyana, Jean-Jacques Forté, had stated that France recognizes Guyana’s need to build its capacity to safeguard its land and maritime areas, contributing to regional stability.
Additionally, Guyana purchased a French military vessel for its Defence Force Coast Guard to enhance patrol and security operations in its waterways. France has reiterated its willingness to share its expertise in high-tech capabilities and skills with partners that share common security goals.
