Britain will deploy a naval ship off Guyana later this month, its ministry of defence said on Sunday, as the South American nation faces a border dispute with neighbour Venezuela over the oil-rich Essequibo region.
The United Kingdom is sending the Royal Navy patrol vessel HMS Trent off the coast of Guyana, a move announced by the UK Ministry of Defence. This decision follows an ongoing border dispute between Guyana and Venezuela over the oil-rich Essequibo region. Despite the tension, both countries agreed earlier this month to avoid the use of force and keep the situation from escalating.
Essequibo Dispute
The territorial dispute over the Essequibo region, stretching over 160,000 square kilometers, has been a contentious issue between Guyana and Venezuela.
Venezuela has revived its claim to the territory and adjacent offshore areas following significant oil and gas discoveries. While the Essequibo region is generally recognized as part of Guyana, Venezuela’s territorial claim has drawn increased international attention.
UK Support for Guyana
The UK’s decision to deploy HMS Trent is seen as a gesture of support for Guyana, a former British colony and regional ally. The move follows a visit by British junior foreign minister David Rutley to Guyana. Rutley reiterated the UK’s stance and affirmed that the border issue has been settled for over 120 years and sovereign borders must be respected.
HMS Trent’s Role
The HMS Trent’s deployment is part of a series of regional engagements during her Atlantic Patrol Task deployment. Initially deployed to the Caribbean for drug-smuggling surveillance, HMS Trent has been re-tasked to patrol the disputed region. Her presence in the region is a clear demonstration of the UK’s stance, potentially deterring Venezuela from any hostile activities.
In conclusion, the territorial dispute over the Essequibo region between Guyana and Venezuela has brought international attention to the area’s potential oil wealth.
The UK’s decision to deploy HMS Trent is a significant gesture of support for Guyana, demonstrating the international implications of this dispute.
