President praises US on partnership in several sectors and must have mutual respect and non interference

DSC_7574Georgetown : United States of America Ambassador to Guyana Brent Hardt last evening hosted a reception in celebrating the 237th Independence anniversary of the USA.

As the United States of America conveyed to Guyana and the entire CARICOM region its proud diplomatic association, the Guyana Government remains adamant that such a relationship must be based on mutual respect, understanding and non interference in each other’s affairs.

President Ramotar reminded of the principles laid down by the United Nations (UN) about the right of nations to self determination.

“That is what our early leaders were trying to assert in the struggle for independence and in a post -independent Guyana,” President Ramotar said at the US Ambassador’s residence.

On the other hand, the benefits that would have accrued through the Guyana/US partnership in the area of health, security, disaster preparedness and the economy were met with high praises from the Guyanese Head of State.

He made reference to the Caribbean Basin Security Initiative (CBSI) which he said has contributed to Guyana’s national efforts and the regular funding provided through US South Com to the Caribbean Disaster Emergency Management Agency (CDEMA) for humanitarian assistance and programmes.

US Ambassador Hardt announced that within months, three patrol vessels will be delivered to the Guyana Defence Force (GDF) for the enhancement of counter drugs and anti-piracy efforts.

The conclusion of an open skies agreement bolstered economic ties between the two countries; major exploration deals were sealed with reputable US oil and gas companies, and recently the US co-sponsored an investment seminar to promote investment opportunities for Guyana.

Through the President’s Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief (PEPFAR), the effort to strengthen health services continues with the fight against HIV/AIDS, a main priority. The opening of a Ministry of Health’s Materials Management Unit warehouse to improve storage and distribution capacity is also credited to the Guyana/US relations.

“Relations between the United States and Guyana and the US and the Caribbean Community have never been closer or more dynamic,” Ambassador Hardt said in his remarks.