MEXICO CITY, November 29 - RAPSI. Colombia has decided to withdraw from the International Court of Justice (ICJ) in the Hague due to its recent ruling in a maritime dispute with Nicaragua, announced Colombian Foreign Minister Maria Angela Holguin.

The dispute between Nicaragua and Colombia over several islands in the Caribbean Sea had been going on for many years. The ICJ recognized Colombia's right to seven small islands, however, it also extended the sea borders of Nicaragua by at least 70,000 square kilometers.

The court's ruling is full of gaps and groundless arguments. It is evidence of the court's disregard for the interests of Colombians who live on the Archipelago of San Andres, Providencia and Santa Catalina, according to Holguin.

Pursuant to the court ruling, the waters surrounding the islands belong to Nicaragua. These waters are rich in fish and also contain oil deposits.

Colombian President Juan Manuel Santos has also strongly criticized the Hague Court's ruling.

Last Monday, Nicaraguan President Daniel Ortega said that Nicaraguan military vessels had already taken control of the maritime area which had been transferred to the jurisdiction of Managua (the capital of Nicaragua) by the ruling.

Ortega stressed that his country seeks no conflict with their Columbian neighbors.