SVG Prime Minister Gonsalves Advocates for Maduro’s Presidency in Guyana’s Oil Interests
Dr. Ralph Gonsalves, the Prime Minister of St. Vincent and the Grenadines, argues that Nicolas Maduro’s presidency is beneficial for Guyana’s oil sector, emphasizing the dangers posed by potential right-wing governance in Venezuela. He advocates for peace and dialogue over military action and offers a critique of U.S. interventionist policies in the region.
The Prime Minister of St. Vincent and the Grenadines, Dr. Ralph Gonsalves, has articulated that having Nicolas Maduro as the President of Venezuela is advantageous for Guyana’s oil industry. His statement was made during his visit to Guyana to attend the funeral of esteemed Statesman Sir Shridath Ramphal. Dr. Gonsalves posits that the Venezuelan populace, by rejecting the right-wing opposition, has ensured greater security for Guyana’s burgeoning oil sector. He remarked, “If you have a choice between Maduro and the right wing in Venezuela, I advise you to choose Maduro. The right wing will seek to allow the Americans to take the oil in Venezuela, to set up to take over PDVSA (State oil company) and try to run Guyana’s oil industry from Caracas.” Additionally, Dr. Gonsalves asserted his opposition to any military action by Venezuela concerning the Essequibo Region, emphasizing the importance of dialogue and peaceful resolutions: “Anytime, if Venezuela attempts to do anything militarily, you’ll hear that I speak against it… Under anybody. No war. You have a problem, you talk about it, you solve it.” His government, along with Brazil, has been pivotal in fostering dialogue between President Ali of Guyana and President Maduro regarding regional peace and cooperation. Furthermore, Dr. Gonsalves defended his view of the Venezuelan elections in July 2024 as “fair and free,” drawing attention to the historical context of the United States’ involvement in foreign elections and government overthrows. Guyana and Suriname have expressed their concerns over the election process in Venezuela, signing a statement for verification of votes. However, U.S. Ambassador to Guyana, Nicole Theriot, voiced disappointment regarding the lack of support from other regional nations. Alluding to his relationship with the United States, Dr. Gonsalves clarified, “I’ve said repeatedly that the Americans are our friends. I have excellent relations with the Americans. The American society and civilization is an amazing one of science and technology but we have seen historically, they have not yet been able to get out from the ghost of Monroe. In this backyard, their backyard or their front yard or whatever they call it, they must control it.”
The article discusses the geopolitical dynamics between Venezuela and Guyana, particularly in the context of the oil sector. Prime Minister Dr. Ralph Gonsalves of St. Vincent and the Grenadines emphasizes the implications of Nicolas Maduro’s presidency for Guyana’s interests, arguing that the right-wing opposition poses a greater threat. This reflects a broader historical narrative of U.S. influence and intervention in Caribbean politics and economic affairs, particularly through the Monroe Doctrine.
In summary, Prime Minister Dr. Ralph Gonsalves asserts that the continuation of Nicolas Maduro as President of Venezuela presents a strategic advantage for Guyana’s oil industry, as opposed to the potential consequences of a right-wing government. He firmly opposes any military aggression towards Guyana and advocates for peaceful resolutions to conflicts. Furthermore, he highlights the complexities of international relations, particularly regarding U.S. involvement in the region’s political landscape.
Original Source: caribbean.loopnews.com
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