Georgetown: The European Union’s Ambassador to Guyana; Jernej Videtic, and his wife Mrs. Ruta Drizyte-Videtic, hosted a reception at the National Cultural Centre (NCC) as part of the EU’s “Europe Day” celebrations recently. At the reception pictures of various EU-funded projects throughout Guyana were on display. The EU Ambassador asked the government of Guyana to examine the possibility of abolishing the death penalty, addressing same-sex rights, and combating human trafficking more ardently. Another point of the Ambassador’s address was the need for more women rights and gender equality. He congratulated Guyana on its 50th Independence Anniversary. Videtic also noted the recent historic local government elections and congratulated the President on his victory in last year’s General Elections. He committed to strengthening the EU relations with Guyana, noting that unity is a big plus. President David Granger said that “Europe Day” was a beacon to all nations and an historic occasion as Guyana seeks to strengthen international relations with the European Nation. He noted the historic “Georgetown Agreement” of 1975; which he said formed a special bond between Guyana and the EU for over 40 years. Granger said, “The European Union is one of Guyana’s main trading partners. Guyana exported goods valued at €192 million, or about 15 percent of Guyana’s exports to the EU in 2013 alone.” He contended that European integration has been an “instrument” for the unity and cooperation among countries and regions across the world; he also noted that the European Union remains a valued developmental partner in the Caribbean.
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