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2024: Awaiting ICJ Judgment

As of 2024, the international community is awaiting the ICJ’s final judgment on the case. Venezuelan Foreign Minister Yván Gil continues to assert Venezuela’s rights over the Esequibo, while Guyanese Foreign Minister Hugh Todd remains confident in a favorable ruling for Guyana. The judgment will have significant implications for regional stability and the economic interests of both countries, particularly concerning the contested oil-rich territories.

2018: ICJ Proceedings

In 2018, the ICJ confirmed its jurisdiction over the case. Venezuelan Foreign Minister Jorge Arreaza maintained Venezuela's opposition, stating, "We stand firm in our belief that this dispute must be resolved through direct negotiations, not imposed rulings." Guyanese Foreign Minister Carl Greenidge welcomed the ICJ's decision, calling it "a victory for international law and the rule of justice."

2015: ExxonMobil Incident

In May 2015, after ExxonMobil discovered significant oil reserves in the contested maritime zone, Venezuelan Foreign Minister Delcy Rodríguez issued a strong statement, declaring, "Venezuela will defend its sovereign rights against any foreign incursions into our territory." Guyanese Foreign Minister Carl Greenidge retorted that "Guyana will not be intimidated by baseless claims."

2013: The ICJ Involvement

Guyanese Foreign Minister Carolyn Rodrigues-Birkett filed an application with the International Court of Justice (ICJ) in 2013, arguing that the court should validate the 1899 Arbitral Award. Venezuelan Foreign Minister Elías Jaua responded, insisting that "the ICJ lacks jurisdiction, as the Geneva Agreement mandates bilateral negotiations, not judicial intervention."

1999-2010: Diplomatic Efforts and Regional Tensions

1999: Venezuelan President Hugo Chávez and Foreign Minister José Vicente Rangel sought to strengthen regional ties while keeping the dispute at a diplomatic level. Chávez frequently mentioned, "The Esequibo is ours, but we seek a peaceful resolution through dialogue and understanding."

2010: When Guyana awarded oil exploration licenses in the disputed maritime zone, Venezuelan Foreign Minister Nicolás Maduro condemned the move, stating, "Guyana's actions undermine the spirit of the Geneva Agreement and threaten regional peace."

1966: The Geneva Agreement

On February 17, 1966, the Geneva Agreement was signed by Venezuelan Foreign Minister Ignacio Iribarren Borges, British Foreign Secretary Michael Stewart, and Forbes Burnham, the Prime Minister of British Guiana. This agreement sought to find a peaceful resolution through a Mixed Commission. Iribarren Borges declared, "This agreement offers a framework for a just settlement that respects Venezuela's rights."

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