Brazilian Foreign Minister Mauro Vieira does not see a risk of armed conflict between Guyana and Venezuela, despite increasing tensions between the countries over the disputed Essequibo region. The agency reports that Reuters referring to the head of the country’s foreign policy department.
“Brazilian Foreign Minister Mauro Vieira said on Wednesday that he sees no risk of armed conflict between neighbors Guyana and Venezuela,” the agency said in a statement.
In the referendum held on December 4, Venezuelans voted to include the Essequibo region, which covers two-thirds of neighboring Guyana, into the country. Venezuelan officials said more than 50% of the country’s voters participated. More than 90% of those who voted supported joining. The media also report low turnout.
Guyanese authorities refuse to give up their territory and threaten to seek help from the UN. The Caribbean Community Group of States has issued a statement in support of Guyana’s territorial integrity.
Brazil has deployed troops on its border because the main road between Venezuela and Guyana passes through its territory. A source in the Brazilian military told Reuters that Brazil would not allow either side to use its territory for military purposes.
Before this, Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro at the Federal Government Council meeting showed Map showing the Essequibo region included in the country.
Previously Maduro called for the establishment of a 24th state in the disputed region in Venezuela.