…at Brazil’s 127th Republic Day celebrations
GUYANA and Brazil have vowed to strengthen relations as the neighbouring country celebrated its 127th anniversary of the Proclamation of the Republic Day during a reception at the residence of Brazil’s Ambassador to Guyana, Mr Lineu de Pupo Paula.
The Brazilian Ambassador welcomed the guests and delivered brief remarks, after which Vice-President and Minister of Foreign Affairs, Carl Greenidge took his turn at the podium, saying:

“On behalf of the Government and People of Guyana, I wish to convey warm congratulations to the Government and People of the Federative Republic as you commemorate another important milestone in the history of your country.”
He affirmed that Guyana remains appreciative of the consistent support of the Government of Brazil in the preservation of its sovereignty and territorial integrity and for Brazil’s efforts in ensuring that South America remains a zone of peace.
“Guyana attaches great value to the friendly and good neighbourly relations which happily exist between our two countries,” Minister Greenidge said, adding: “Since the establishment of diplomatic relations in 1968, Guyana and Brazil have worked closely at all levels to create a productive partnership, based on mutual respect and understanding.”

INDEPENDENCE CALLS

Like many other countries the world over, Brazil, too, grappled with slavery issues in the 19th Century.
There were resounding calls for abolition, and widespread economic chaos led to an underground movement supporting the formation of a republic.
On November 15, 1889, the republic to which the people of Brazil had long aspired and fought was finally attained. Ever since then, the anniversary of the successful creation of that republic is observed on November 15 as Proclamation of the Republic Day in Brazil.
And according to Minister Greenidge, “We in Guyana also acknowledge the enormous contributions made by those men and women who have set the stage for the creation of the existing strong democratic institutions in your country. “Your ability to successfully overcome the political and economic challenges in recent months, and to successfully host a major international event – the Rio Olympics — is testimony also to the dedication and commitment of the Brazilian people towards the safeguarding of a valued democratic system, and the building of a prosperous nation.

“We congratulate you all on these achievements and wish you continued progress and prosperity.”
In closing, Minister Greenidge acknowledged Brazil’s key role in advocating for regionalism, having played a part in the conceptualisation of several South American integration mechanisms.

Also joining in the celebration were representatives of the State of Roraima; Guyana’s Members of the Cabinet, including Vice-President and Minister of Public Security, Mr Khemraj Ramjattan, and Attorney-General Mr Basil Williams; as well as other local Members of Parliament; members of the diplomatic corps; and other distinguished guests.