Guyana Chronicle Quartely 31-03-2024

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Tourism, services industries continue to flourish as Guyana blossoms

— over 2,000 hotel rooms, more jobs to be available by 2025

See inside:

Lives improved, village economies being significantly enhanced

Oil exploration activities continue to bear fruit

‘We have to create opportunities for our people’
— President Ali says; firmly defends ‘practical’ decision to pursue rapid development of oil and gas industry for the benefit of Guyanese
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Lives improved, village economies being significantly enhanced

— with crucial investments in key areas across Region Nine

RESIDENTS of Karaudarnau and surrounding areas in Region Nine will benefit from several developmental projects which encompass the enhancement of road infrastructure, healthcare services, educational infrastructure, agriculture, and other services.

This was underscored by President, Dr Irfaan Ali during a meeting in the village, on Friday.

This year, $200 million will be expended on roads alone in the “Deep South Rupununi.”

Meanwhile, in the education sector, President Ali said: “On schools in the Deep South, we will be spending more than $250 million. In the next two years, every community will have access to nursery, primary and secondary education.”

But more importantly, in

the next 12 months, President Ali continued by saying: “We are going to expand the internet facility that produces five megabytes to over 140 so

that your children can study under the GOAL scholarship programme from right here… These are things that matter.”

Very soon, for the first

time, surgeries will be done at Aishalton due to the investments in equipment, facility and infrastructure.

In line with Guyana’s

agenda for communities to become self-sufficient in food production, the Head of State emphasised: “This year alone, we will spend a further $50 plus million in the Deep South to support your shade house programme, to support your black giant [chicken] programme and to expand food production in the communities for you to become more sustainable.”

Within the last three years, 3,768 residents, 1,789 households, from Karaudarnau, Shea, Maruranau, Awarewaunau, Aishalton, Achiwib, Parabara and Baishaza benefitted from billions of dollars in investments.

These include almost $300 million spent on health, $700 million on education, $230 million on renewable energy, close to $30 million on information and commu-

nication technology (ICT) services, close to $10 million on tourism, about $80 million in agriculture, almost $260 million in Amerindian affairs, over $35 million in presidential grants, $3 billion supplementary budget was passed for Amerindian communities, over $70 million in economic investment fund, and $133 million in low carbon development strategy (LCDS) funds.

And now, the government is working on an expanded programme to increase the delivery of potable water access there. In 2023, 1,366 solar home systems were distributed there.

President Ali noted: “If you look at every single village, you will see a series of projects that are leading to the improvement of life. There is not a single village

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Residents of Karaudarnau and surrounding areas in Region Nine will benefit from several developmental projects which encompass the enhancement of road infrastructure, healthcare services, educational infrastructure, agriculture, and other services

Lives improved, village economies...

From page 2A

in Region Nine that can say they were not included in the development over the last three years.”

President Ali further outlined the investments from the various sectors the region received.

These include an investment of over $1.9 billion from the Ministry of Human Services and Social Security, almost $20 million in 2023 in public assistance, almost $1.6 billion from the Ministry of Natural Resources, almost $70 million from the Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sport, about $600 million from the Ministry of Health, and $4.9 billion from the Ministry of Education.

He highlighted: “These are things that change the prospects in the communities…Those are the investments we made on behalf of you. The Amerindians of this country are equally entitled to every cent of revenue that this country gets.”

Last week, the regional officials informed the President that the weather had significantly affected the production of cassava crops. As a result, the government provided 500,000 pounds of cassava worth $20 million to support the communities, a few days ago.

As a commitment to the region, the Head of State said “We are going to continue to buy excess production from the coast and send it to

your villages…So that you could enjoy the things that make life easy even under the most difficult circumstances.”

He said that to provide a higher caliber of service in the communities, investments are being made in healthcare staff and services.

Today, hundreds of young Amerindians are training to become nurses, doctors, nursing assistants, dental technicians and other medical practitioners.

The President reminded: “We are working on a plan to ensure that every Guyanese and every community become prosperous under the umbrella of the One Guyana concept.”

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Residents of Karaudarnau and surrounding areas in Region Nine will benefit from several developmental projects which encompass the enhancement of road infrastructure, healthcare services, educational infrastructure, agriculture, and other services

Tourism, services industries continue to flourish as Guyana blossoms

— over 2,000 hotel rooms, more jobs to be available by 2025

GUYANA is well on its way to achieving 2,000 hotel rooms by 2025 to accommodate the vast influx of visitors the nation has been witnessing in recent days Minister of Tourism, Industry and Commerce, Oneidge Walrond recently inspected ongoing works of the new Aiden Hotel located at Robb and Oronoque streets in the capital city.

fice is among other branded hotels that will be opened in Guyana to supplement the growing hospitality sector. Minister Walrond stated that she is optimistic that the proj-

The boutique-style edi-

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The 150-room AC Marriott Hotel taking shape at Ogle, East Coast
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As
Guyana continues to develop rapidly, the opportunities for Guyanese are increasing and at least 500 Guyanese will soon benefit from permanent employment when construction of the Georgetown Seafront Resort and Convention Centre is completed

Tourism, services industries continue to flourish as ...

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ect will be completed in time.

“The contractors have assured us that by May, this project will be completed.

As you know, in June, we have the international cricket finals then we have CPL right after. We are optimistic that we will have rooms for our visitors as they come for these events,” she said.

Guyana also saw persons coming in for its annual energy conference, Mashramani festivities, and Rupununi

Rodeo, while more persons will be here for the Berbice expo, building expo, among other events.

The country recorded the highest levels of arrivals last year when compared to the arrivals recorded in 2019, with a record-breaking total of 319,056. This stands as the nation’s highest-recorded number of visitors to date, a clear testimony to the growth of the tourism and hospitality sectors.

Minister Walrond highlighted that the government had anticipated an exponen-

tial rise in visitors to Guyana, following its resumption to office in 2020.

“We have seen the realisation of that and that is why we sent out an expression of interest in 2020. These projects take a long time to add additional rooms and we are well on our way for those rooms to be realised for our guests to have internationally branded standard hotels that they are accustomed to,” the tourism minister pointed out.

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Construction of the Blue Ridge Hotel underway at Liliendaal, East Coast Demerara Works progressing well on the Kings Hotel on the corner of Waterloo and Quamina Streets in Georgetown

Border controversy… Diplomacy, Rule of Law remain

Guyana’s first line of defence

— President Ali affirms; says country also enhancing defence capabilities, working with international partners to address any eventualities

AMID escalating aggression from neighbouring Venezuela, President Dr. Irfaan Ali has reaffirmed Guyana’s unwavering commitment to protecting its territorial integrity, and ensuring regional stability, backed by a strong international coalition.

The President reaffirmed the country’s position during his recent interview with BBC’s HARDtalk host Stephen Sackur on the discoveries made by oil giant, ExxonMobil, in the waters off the cost of the Essequibo.

Recently, lawmakers allied to Venezuela’s President Nicolás Maduro approved the creation of a new state in Guyana’s resource-rich Essequibo region.

Despite ongoing proceedings before the International Court of Justice (ICJ), Venezuela has attempted to assert itself to lay claim to Guyana’s territory, citing a December referendum as a so-called “justification.”

Guyana, however, remains steadfast in its position, asserting that its borders are non-negotiable, and reaffirming its sovereignty over the region.

“We will not allow that to happen. And that is why we are before the ICJ, because we believe in the

international rule of law. We are a peaceful country; we are a democratic country. We believe in regional stability,” President Ali said as he reaffirmed Guyana’s commitment to peaceful resolutions.

Highlighting the gravity of the situation, President Ali acknowledged Venezuela’s aggressive posture, stating: “We are dealing with a neighbour that is aggressive; that has made certain threats.”

He outlined Guyana’s proactive measures, including investments in military capabilities and infrastructure, to deter any potential aggression. However, President Ali pointed out that Guyana’s first line of defence is diplomacy.

“We are investing in our military; we are investing in the technology of our military. We are investing in infrastructure,” he said.

President Ali underscored the importance of international support, noting endorsements from key allies such as the United States, the United Kingdom, France, Canada, and regional bodies like the Caribbean Community (CARICOM).

He underscored the significance of this coalition in deterring destabilising actions from Venezuela, stating: “We are working

on the basis of an international coalition that would not allow this region to be destabilised by any action by Venezuela to overrun our territorial integrity or our borders.”

GUYANA’S READINESS

Addressing recent developments along the border, President Ali affirmed Guyana’s readiness to defend its sovereignty.

“If there is any breach in our territorial space; if there is any action by anyone to destabilise our country, and to invade in any way, shape or form, we will call upon every force and every friend to help us, and to work with us to protect our territorial integrity,” the Head of State said.

Attorney-General and Minister of Legal Affairs

Anil Nandlall, S.C., had recently called upon the international community to condemn Venezuela’s recent actions, and to demand compliance with international law, and advocate for peaceful resolution through diplomacy.

“This is not a favour to Guyana, but it is discharging a duty we owe to ourselves and indeed the world, if we are to be true to the founding principles of this organisation,” he said

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Guyana will soon acquire maritime patrol assets from France. This was announced following a meeting between President Irfaan Ali, and Stéphane Séjourné Minister of Europe and Foreign Affairs of the French Republic at State House, Georgetown, on Monday, March 25, 2024

Diplomacy, Rule of Law remain

Guyana’s first line of ...

From page 6A

during his address at the 148th Inter-Parliamentary Union Assembly in Geneva, Switzerland.

In 2018, Guyana took a decisive step by approaching the ICJ seeking affirmation of the 1899 Arbitral Award’s legitimacy.

Venezuela, taking a defiant stance, initially claimed that the ICJ lacked jurisdiction, a contention flatly rejected by the World Court in a crucial ruling in December 2020. The door was thus opened for the ICJ to delve into the merits of the substantive case.

The substantive case, which highlights the historical context and the 1899 Arbitral Award, remains before the World Court.

In response to Venezuela’s actions, Guyana has been bolstering its defence

and diplomatic efforts with the help of international partners, including the United States, aiming to counter security threats while promoting regional stability.

Despite these preparations, Guyanese officials have reiterated their focus on defence rather than offence.

Guyana, among other things, also remains committed to the Argyle Declaration, which was the result of a meeting between President Dr. Irfaan Ali and his Venezuelan counterpart last December.

This agreement includes both countries committing to avoid the use of force, and advocating for dialogue and co-operation to prevent tensions.

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Flashback to the historic face-to-face meeting between President Dr Irfaan Ali and President Nicolas Maduro of Venezuela in the presence of CARICOM, CELAC, Brazil and the United Nations, last December Senior Minister in the Office of the President with Responsibility for Finance, Dr Ashni Singh and the Deputy General Manager - Line of Credit Group, India’s EXIM Bank, Sanjay Lamba, in March, signed a US$23.27 million agreement to purchase two aircraft for the Guyana Defence Force

Region Seven being actively transformed to advance human, economic development

THE township of Bartica and its neighbouring communities are on the path to transformation, with major investments being made by the government.

These investments are improving the lives of citizens in a plethora of ways such as the construction of roads to link the town and interior, and other regions.

There are also ongoing efforts to establish new buildings, and renovate and expand old ones to create more opportunities such as employment and training.

During a recent interview with the Department of Public Information (DPI), Regional Executive Officer of Region Seven, Kerwin Ward said that over $3 billion is budgeted this year for capital projects in the region.

“For last year, some investments were made to improve our road networks and we have since gone a long way with those projects. This year, additional allocations were given to the region to facilitate some other major projects. In fact, in 2024 the region was allocated a budget of about $4.9 billion, and from that, [a large sum] will go towards capital investments,” Ward said.

He said that the capital investments are aimed at bridging the gaps that exist in the areas of education, health, and infrastructure.

New schools are being built to ensure that children from all the villages could freely access education in a clean and modern environment that is conducive to learning.

Additionally, with the health of citizens being the government’s top priority, the town will soon see the construction of a brand-new state-of-the-art hospital, which will be equipped with advanced equipment and adequate staff.

This facility will not only serve the residents of Bartica but also those from other villages within the interior locations.

“Region Seven is the second largest region, so we not only cater to Bartica but also to the interior where a number of huge projects are ongoing too. These projects are being done in collaboration with a number of agencies such as the Ministry of Public Works, Local Government, the Ministry of Housing, and those that I have mentioned before,” the REO said.

He said the government is in overdrive and will continue to pursue development in Region Seven. According to him, the administration has a policy of aggressively working to push transformation in all parts of the country.

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‘We have to create opportunities for our people’

— President Ali says; firmly defends ‘practical’ decision to pursue rapid development of oil and gas industry for the benefit of Guyanese

AS Guyana moves forward with its ambitious plans to tap into its lucrative oil-and-gas reserves, President, Dr Irfaan Ali has reaffirmed that the balancing act between economic growth and environmental stewardship remains at the forefront of the nation’s agenda.

During a recent interview with the BBC’s HARDtalk, President Ali found himself defending this stance, again.

Host Stephen Sackur questioned President Ali on whether Guyana’s focus on fossil-fuel extraction contradicts global efforts to combat climate change.

Sackur attempted to lecture the Head of State on climate change, highlighting the potential environmental impact of extracting $150 billion worth of oil-and-gas reserves off Guyana’s coast, pointing to the release of more carbon emissions into the atmosphere.

Responding firmly, President Ali said: “Let me stop you right there. Do you know that Guyana has a forest, forever[sic], that is the size of England and Scotland combined? A forest that stores 19.5 gigatons of carbon? A forest that we have kept alive?”

Sackur further pressed President Ali on whether Guyana’s preservation of its vast forest, which stores a

significant amount of carbon, justifies the decision to release carbon emissions through oil and gas extraction. However, President Ali strategically flipped the script and put the question to the host: “Does that give you the right to lecture us on climate change?” adding: “I am going to lecture you on climate change.”

In challenging critics’ authority to criticise Guyana’s actions, President Ali highlighted Guyana’s environmental stewardship which he said justifies its pursuit of oil-and-gas development, while maintaining a net-zero carbon footprint.

Sackur further questioned Guyana’s approach, referencing comments from Vice-President, Dr Bharrat Jagdeo expressing the urgency to extract oil amid the climate change imperative.

President Ali defended this stance as “practical” and “honest,” asserting Guyana’s commitment to economic development and creating opportunities for its people.

He emphasised the country’s need to aggressively pursue its natural resources for economic growth and development, highlighting the lack of external support in bringing opportunities to Guyana.

“You can say we are rushing, but we are very practical. We have this natural

resource. And we’re going to aggressively pursue this natural resource because we have to develop our country.

“We are committed to the development of this region. We have to create opportunities for our people because no one is bringing it out for us,” President Ali said.

The international community has long praised Guyana for its dedication to environmental sustainability and leadership in addressing climate change.

Recently, Ambassador Linda Thomas-Greenfield, the US envoy to the United Nations, acknowledged President Ali’s dedication to environmental priorities, particularly in supporting rural communities and maintaining forest cover. Meanwhile, the World Bank’s Vice-President for the Latin America and Caribbean Region, Carlos Felipe Jaramillo, has said that the international financial institution is interested in the good learning practices that Guyana has to offer in its efforts to combat the effects of climate change.

Guyana’s commitment is evident in the initiatives aimed at combatting climate change and enhancing economic resilience within the Caribbean Community (CARICOM), as it contributed US$2 million to the Regional Adaptation Fund.

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The government recently commissioned a US$13M training facility at Port Mourant, Berbice, Region Six

‘We have to create opportunities...

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Guyana is also making strides in biodiversity conservation by setting up a state-of-the-art biodiversity centre, as part of its Low Carbon Development Strategy (LCDS) 2030. This strategy aims to balance economic growth with environmental preservation.

Guyana’s historic $1.146 trillion 2024 budget, is also set to transform the country’s economic landscape.

MAJOR PROJECTS

Major projects such as the gas-to-energy initiative and the Amaila Falls Hydro Project are underway, aiming to provide affordable, reliable energy while reducing reliance on fossil fuels.

Some of the other alternative energy sources that Guyana is investing in include biomass and bagasse-based cogeneration, rice husk, biodiesel, ethanol and wind.

Those investments align with Guyana’s goal to transition to renewable energy sources and reduce its greenhouse gas emissions.

The country aims to

achieve a 75 per cent renewable energy consumption by 2030, as outlined in the LCDS.

Additionally, the country is making significant progress in renewable energy, with a focus on solar projects expected to provide pow -

er to nearly 90 per cent of the hinterland population by 2025. These efforts align with global sustainability goals and support inclusive growth and energy access.

The government is also taking regional leadership through initiatives such as

the ‘25 by 25’ plan, aimed at reducing CARICOM’s food-import bill by 25% by 2025 and forging innovative financing models for environmental sustainability, such as the landmark agreement with Hess Corporation for the purchase of 2.5 million carbon credits annually.

Economic forecasts for Guyana are exceptionally positive, with the World Bank predicting unparalleled

growth rates in the coming years, driven by oil production and the diversification of sectors such as agriculture and construction.

The forecast predicts an astounding 38.2 per cent growth in 2024 and 15.2 per cent in 2025 for Guyana, the highest in the Caribbean.

Overall, the country’s economic landscape is set for continued expansion, with growth averaging 20 per cent

annually from 2024 to 2028. This growth is supported by an ambitious budget focused on development, infrastructure, and social welfare, without new taxes. However, the specter of climate change and environmental degradation looms large.

Guyana is addressing these challenges head-on, with comprehensive strategies for low-carbon development and significant investments in renewable energy projects, including solar, hydropower, and wind initiatives.

The country’s transition to cleaner energy sources is also reflected in the development of infrastructure such as the Corentyne River Bridge, enhancing connectivity and trade potential.

In preparation for the future, Guyana is enhancing its safety and environmental protection measures, particularly in the oil sector, with a National Oil Spill Response Plan and regular training exercises.

This proactive stance ensures that while the country harnesses its natural resources for economic gain, it remains vigilant against potential environmental risks.

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Work is progressing rapidly on the landmark gas-to-energy project which will significantly lower the cost of electricity

Guyana playing ‘proactive role’ to achieve regional food security targets

IICA Director General says

transform its agriculture and food production systems, seeking out newer technologies and innovative programmes to meet the nutritional needs of the region.

Lauding the country’s approach to achieving regional food security targets, such as reducing import expenditure on food, and implementing programmes to address malnutrition and hunger, Inter-American Institute for Cooperation on Agriculture (IICA) Director General, Dr. Manuel Otero said the nation has been playing ‘a proactive role’ in that regard.

Dr. Otero, during a sit down interview with the Guyana Chronicle on the sidelines of the 38th Session of the United Nations Food and Agriculture Organisation (FAO)’s Regional Conference for Latin America and the Caribbean (LARC) being held in Georgetown, Guyana, said that there have been notable investments in the country’s agriculture sector.

Dr. Otero noted that every country is unique, and their approach to address the challenges faced within the production sector may vary, but in Guyana’s case, what has been notable is the government’s persistent and public-private partnerships to not only increase food production, but also the investments being made in innovation.

“Each country has a model to be followed, and it’s necessary to be persistent and to have a longterm vision,” Dr. Otero said.

This year, Guyana was the host country for the FAO conference, which saw the gathering of regional agriculture ministers and other stakeholders holding discussions to foster deeper cooperation and strategies on essential topics such as sustainability, transformation, food security, agrifood systems and climate change.

“These types of meetings are very important to define, in a multilateral

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GUYANA has crafted a model to Guyana has crafted a model to transform its agriculture and food production systems, seeking out newer technologies and innovative programmes to meet the nutritional needs of the region
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Oil exploration activities continue to bear fruit

EXXONMOBIL Guyana, early this month, announced that it has made an oil discovery at the Bluefin well in the Stabroek Block offshore Guyana.

This marks the company’s first discovery of 2024 and signals its continued progress in tapping into Guyana’s vast

oil and gas potential.

The Bluefin well, drilled by the Stena Drillmax drillship in 4,244 feet (1,294 metres) of water, encountered approximately 197 feet (60 metres) of hydrocarbon-bearing sandstone.

Situated about 8.5 kilometres southeast of the Sail-

fin-1 well, in the southeastern region of the Stabroek block, this discovery further bolsters ExxonMobil’s extensive exploration efforts in the area.

“Our exploration programme continues to improve our understanding of the block’s potential to drive viable oil and gas development.

“This latest find reinforces that we have the people, skills and technology to safely and responsibly deliver value to Guyana from the country’s resources,” President of ExxonMobil Guyana Alistair Routledge said in a release.

The Bluefin discovery

adds to the impressive tally of more than 30 discoveries already made on the Stabroek block since 2015, underlining the area’s rich oil potential.

Notably, the Bluefin-1 exploration well is strategically located close to the Suriname border and lies six miles southwest of the Haimara-1 discovery, currently undergoing appraisal for potential gas development.

ExxonMobil’s exploration endeavours received regulatory approval from the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) in July 2023, enabling the company to proceed with plans to drill up to 35 exploration and/ or appraisal wells over the coming years.

This latest discovery reaffirms Guyana’s position as a key player in the global energy landscape and underscores ExxonMobil’s commitment to sustainable resource development in the region.

The oil giant continues to exceed expectations in oil production. With a current daily output of 645,000 barrels of oil, the company has surpassed its initial targets.

The operations are spread across three FPSO facilities –Liza Destiny, Liza Unity, and Prosperity – all of which are operating beyond their nameplate capacities. The ‘ONE GUYANA’ vessel will bolster these production numbers.

The year-end goal is to reach a total cumulative output of 500 million barrels, marking a major milestone for Guyana since the start-up in the Stabroek Block five

years ago.

Also on the front burner, ExxonMobil is gearing up this year for an ambitious exploration and appraisal campaign in the offshore Stabroek Block, with plans to drill at least seven wells this year. Out of the $29 billion invested, the company has recouped approximately $19 billion, leaving an outstanding cost of $10 billion.

As cost recovery completes, Guyana’s share of revenues will increase from 14.5 per cent to nearly 52 per cent, significantly boosting the country’s income from its oil resources.

Since beginning operations in 2018, ExxonMobil and HESS have made a substantial investment in the country, with Routledge detailing the figures involved.

Under the terms of the Production Sharing Agreements with ExxonMobil Hess, Guyana receives a two per cent royalty on pre-cost revenues and 50 per cent of profits, with a 75 per cent cap on revenues used for cost recovery.

This arrangement has allowed Guyana to earn over US$1 billion so far. While costs are still being recovered, Guyana’s government typically sees about 52 per cent of profits, equivalent to 14.5 per cent of total revenues, which is being used to advance the development of the country and improve the lives of all citizens.

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ExxonMobil Guyana, early this month, announced that it has made an oil discovery at the Bluefin well in the Stabroek Block offshore Guyana

Guyana playing ‘proactive role’ to achieve regional food security...

From page 11

way, what is the road to be followed, but, at the same time, we need to move from rhetoric to action,” Dr. Otero said.

Guyana, he said, has a special responsibility, with the country’s natural resources such as its arable land and tropical eco-system, food production can thrive.

And one such example is the ongoing cultivation of a new high-yielding variety of rice, which is being done in partnership with IICA.

The new bio-fortified rice variety, Guyana Rice Development Board (GRDB) IICA 17), contains 17 to 20mg per a kilogram of zinc, providing a healthy

option to consumers.

While these investments are notable, the IICA Director General highlighted, however, that there is need for the greater involvement of the private sector and access to financing, not only in Guyana, but regionally as well.

In fact, at the opening ceremony of the recent conference, Guyana’s President Dr. Irfaan Ali urged regional leaders to outline decisive polices that will reflect the political will and financing needed to address these food insecurities.

“Many of us say we want to end hunger and end starvation and malnutrition, but if you look at our budgetary allocation, it does not

reflect that will; if you look at the expenditure profile, it does not reflect that will,”

Dr. Ali said in his address to agriculture ministers and other leaders gathered at the Arthur Chung Conference Centre (ACCC). He went on to say:

“Political will is not only about shouting out the message; it’s about taking policy action and making policy intervention that addresses the issues. Political will is about making the necessary adjustments and changes in your own local system to support the message we’re putting forward.”

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Boasting new technology and the capacity to house over 900 cattle, the Demerara Dairies Incorporated, an extension of Demerara Distillers Limited (DDL), is set to construct Guyana’s first modern dairy farm at Moblissa, along the Soesdyke-Linden Highway
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Guyana continues to strengthen diplomatic, economic ties with international partners

OVER the last three years, the People Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C) Government, in addition to rebuilding Guyana’s international image which was tainted by the APNU+AFC administration, has been strengthening ties with global partners and creating new partnerships as a result of the growing interest in the local economy.

“Guyana’s international image has been repaired. It’s on the move and being led by His Excellency Dr. Mohamed Irfaan Ali,” Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, Hugh Todd had said.

The following is a recap of some of the first-quarter achievements in the areas of diplomacy and economic cooperation:

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Guyana, at the beginning of January, took up its seat as an elected member of the United Nations Security Council for a two-year term, 2024-2025 Photos continued on pages 18A, 20A and 23A

Guyana continues to strengthen diplomatic, economic ties with international...

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US Deputy Assistant Secretary of Defense for the Western Hemisphere, Daniel Erikson visited Guyana and engaged several key stakeholders, including President, Dr Irfaan Ali Prime Minister, Brigadier (Ret’d) Mark Phillips, delivered a stirring call for strengthened cooperation among the Non-Aligned Movement (NAM) member states, during its 19th Summit of Heads of States and Government in Uganda in January Prime Minister, Brigadier (Ret’d) Mark Phillips joined dozens of leaders at the Third South Summit of Heads of State and Governments of the Group of 77 and China, in Kampala, Uganda in January
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Guyana continues to strengthen diplomatic, economic ties with international...

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President Dr. Irfaan Ali, in January, was bestowed with the Global Africa Leadership Award in Ghana for his strong and transformational leadership since assuming the presidential office in 2020 Just one month after joining the United Nations (UN) Security Council as one of its newest non-permanent members, Guyana presided over the crucial global body for the month of February 2024 President Dr. Irfaan Ali and Deputy Managing Director of the International Monetary Fund (IMF) Mr. Kenji Okamura in February
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Guyana continues to strengthen diplomatic, economic ties with international...

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Ambassador Linda Thomas-Greenfield, the US envoy to the United Nations, has reaffirmed the United States’ unwavering support for Guyana’s sovereignty and territorial integrity during a press conference at the US Embassy in February The strengthening of the CARICOM Single Market and Economy (CSME) and the situation in Haiti were the subject of frank discussion when regional leaders met in Georgetown, Guyana, for the 46th Regular Meeting of the Conference of CARICOM Heads of Government The Caribbean Community (CARICOM) and Brazil are embarking on a new era of regional integration and co-operation through the anticipated organisation of the second CARICOM-Brazil Summit. This move was highlighted during the talks in February, when Brazil’s President Luiz Inacio Lula Da Silva arrived in Georgetown for in-depth discussions with President Dr. Irfaan Ali, the current CARICOM Chairman, and other CARICOM leaders
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