Under the leadership of President Dr Irfaan Ali, Guyana is poised for a remarkable transformation over the next five to ten years, with immense potential for economic growth and an improved quality of life for its citizens.
This was the strong sentiment expressed by United States Secretary of State Marco Rubio during his official state visit to Guyana on Thursday.
Secretary Rubio highlighted Guyana’s incredible opportunity for rapid development, improved living standards, and its contribution to regional growth, all of which are set to be realised under President Ali’s direction.
“The lives of your children, the lives of your grandchildren, your lives are going to look very different in five to 10 years under this leadership,” Rubio stated. “We get to visit a lot of countries. When you visit, you’ll find that some countries are unfortunately facing tremendous challenges, and they’re just looking to stabilise. Other countries are looking to improve. This country has an opportunity to transform.”
The US Secretary of State commended President Ali for guiding Guyana toward an era of transformation, noting that the country is on track to become a beacon of progress in the region. He also reaffirmed the United States’ unwavering commitment to supporting Guyana, especially in maintaining the country’s sovereignty and territorial integrity amidst growing external threats.
In recent months, Venezuela has continued its violations of international law, particularly regarding Guyana’s sovereignty over the Essequibo region. Despite a ruling by the International Court of Justice (ICJ) that the status quo should not be disturbed, Venezuela has persisted in laying claims to the region, exemplified by a naval incursion on March 1 and the announcement of an electoral process for the Essequibo region. Secretary Rubio expressed strong support for Guyana, stating that the United States would not allow such claims to derail the country’s path towards prosperity.
“The basic element of progress and transformation and prosperity is security…today we’re demonstrating it… [making] it abundantly clear that we are invested, both as a nation and from our people, in being your partner in transformation and in prosperity and we will not allow illegitimate territorial claims to be an impediment to your dreams and to your right to develop this country into a symbol that I hope will inspire others to follow the example you have set,” Secretary Rubio affirmed.
Rubio further emphasised that the United States would continue to work hand-in-hand with President Ali’s government to ensure Guyana develops to its full potential. The partnership between the two nations has already led to tangible successes, including significant investments by US companies that are contributing to Guyana’s sustainable growth.
Among the key projects highlighted was the Gas-to-Energy project, which will provide an additional 300 megawatts of power to Guyanese homes and businesses. This project is being undertaken by a US joint venture, Lindsayca-CH4. Additionally, just days before Secretary Rubio’s visit, Guyana’s government signed a memorandum of understanding with Hess Corporation and Mount Sinai Health System to extend the National Healthcare initiative for five more years.
Further proof of the strengthening relationship between Guyana and the US is evident in the development of Guyana’s tourism sector. Since 2021, US companies have supported the growth of Guyana’s luxury hotel industry, with the addition of prominent establishments such as the Four Points by Sheraton and Hyatt Place.
These collaborative efforts align with President Ali’s vision for sustainable development and reflect the government’s commitment to ensuring the long-term prosperity and growth of the nation. Through strategic partnerships and unwavering leadership, Guyana is on course to emerge as a regional leader and a shining example for others to follow.
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