Venezuela Condemned Guyana’s Plans to Begin 3D Seismic Exploration
Venezuela condemns the plans announced by the authorities of Guyana to begin three-dimensional seismic exploration in offshore areas that Caracas considers disputed, according to a statement published by the country’s Foreign Minister Ivan Gil.
“Venezuela categorically rejects the announcement by the Government of the Cooperative Republic of Guyana regarding the launch of a three-dimensional seismic exploration campaign in marine areas that the country is attempting to unilaterally present as part of its alleged exclusive economic zone,” the document states, which Gil posted on his Telegram channel.
According to the statement, Caracas considers Guyana’s actions a violation of international law principles, as they concern undelimited maritime areas.
The Bolivarian Republic has demanded that the authorities of Guyana refrain from unilateral actions that could aggravate disagreements between the countries and contradict international legal norms governing relations between coastal states.
“Venezuela reiterates that it does not recognize and will not recognize any concessions, licenses, or activities related to the exploration or exploitation of natural resources in undelimited maritime areas that have been unilaterally granted by Guyana, as well as any rights that third parties may attempt to derive from such illegal actions,” the document states.
The statement was prompted by a large-scale offshore three-dimensional seismic exploration programme announced by Georgetown. It is expected to cover about 25 thousand square kilometres and is aimed at expanding data on the oil and gas potential of surrounding waters. The data obtained is planned to be used to increase the attractiveness of offshore areas for investors.
Venezuela and Guyana have been disputing the ownership of the Essequibo territory and adjacent maritime areas for decades, where major oil fields have been discovered in recent years. The dispute is being considered by the International Court of Justice.
