Guyana protests Venezuela’s inauguration of a bridge on Ankoko Island, which the former considers an illegitimate claim to its territory. President Irfaan Ali and Foreign Minister Hugh Hilton Todd have condemned the development and reiterated commitment to seeking resolution through international law.
The inauguration of a bridge on Ankoko Island by Venezuela has sparked significant diplomatic tensions between Venezuela and Guyana. This controversial development comes after Venezuela’s assertion of sovereignty over the island, which forms part of the disputed territory that Guyana maintains was seized by Caracas in 1966. Guyana’s President, Irfaan Ali, has vehemently condemned the act, labeling it as an “illegitimate claim” to Guyanese territory, emphasizing the nation’s unwillingness to tolerate such provocations from its neighbor.
In response to the inauguration, Guyana’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, Hugh Hilton Todd, has lodged an official protest against Venezuela’s actions. The government remains steadfast in its commitment to resolve the issue through international legal frameworks, aiming to uphold its territorial integrity. During a recent address at the Guyana Defence Force’s Christmas Luncheon, President Ali reiterated the nation’s position on the matter, reinforcing their determination to protect Guyana’s sovereignty against Venezuela’s claims.
The conflict over Ankoko Island is rooted in a broader territorial dispute between Guyana and Venezuela that dates back to colonial times. In 1966, Venezuela laid claim to the area, and the tension has persisted, affecting diplomatic relations since then. The recent inauguration of the bridge is seen as an escalation of Venezuela’s longstanding claims, igniting fears in Guyana of further territorial encroachments. Guyana’s approach to this situation emphasizes the importance of international law and diplomatic negotiation to resolve territorial disputes.
In summary, the inauguration of the bridge on Ankoko Island has heightened tensions between Venezuela and Guyana, with President Ali firmly opposing Venezuela’s claims and reiterating his country’s dedication to international legal recourse. Guyana’s consistent stance against Venezuela’s provocations reflects a broader narrative of territorial integrity and national pride, underscoring the ongoing complexities of South American geopolitics. The situation remains delicate, and further international attention is essential to address these disputes adequately.
Original Source: www.stabroeknews.com
