– says ambassador
JAPAN’S Ambassador to Guyana, Mr. Tatsuaki Iwata has acknowledged that this country is fast becoming a beacon for developing and developed countries worldwide, due to the tireless efforts of President Bharrat Jagdeo on climate change and the development of a low carbon model. He noted that this has emerged out of necessity to ensure Guyana’s ability to cope with the effects of climate change.

“However, it has evolved into a means for Guyana to offer its untouched rainforest as a means of offsetting emissions from the developed and the developing countries, as well as serve as a model for other countries in similar situations,” Iwata observed.

He said the Government of Japan has sought to extend, globally, its assistance to mitigate the effects of climate change.

“This is an area in which my Government has also been working tirelessly, not only in terms of cooperation to countries that would require our expertise and technology but also at the level of domestic commitments in areas such as emissions reductions and the increased usage of and research into cleaner technology and energy,” Iwata stated.

He said issues related to climate change and the environment have not been restricted to international conferences and policy documents as its effects are felt at the ground level.

Iwata was speaking at the official handing over of 35 solar photovoltaic pumping systems to Guyana Water Incorporated (GWI) on Wednesday, at the utility’s Church Street and Vlissengen Road, Georgetown Corporate Office.

The diplomat applauded the Government of Guyana (GOG) for its decision to employ the particular type of water pumps, as the beneficiary communities do not have electricity supply.

He added that the use of solar energy has an additional benefit of being regarded as an environmentally friendly source of power.

TANGIBLE BENEFITS
“Today’s ceremony is reflective of this fact and I am heartened that the hinterland communities can see the tangible benefits of these conferences and various agreements,” Iwata said.

He said the friendship and cooperation long shared by the two countries can be further developed through their common goals, particularly in the area of climate change and the environment, as it provides a platform for synergy to development in that area.

Minister of Housing and Water, Mr. Irfaan Ali, also recognising the very strong mutual relationship, noted that President Jagdeo has made it clear, on many occasions, that this country’s foreign policy is an independent one.

“And, of course, we view the Government and people of Japan as very close friends and we view the Government and people of Japan as international partners, who have contributed tremendously to the advancement and development of Guyana’s cause internationally,” he said.

“Moreso, the GOG is particularly delighted at the support the Government of Japan has lent on the issue of climate change and the environment,” Ali offered.

He said: “As you are all aware, Guyana is now one of the major players,  internationally, on the issue of climate change.

Ali noted that the enlightened approach, in ensuring that small developing countries that are severely vulnerable to effects of climate change are protected, continues to be championed internationally by President Jagdeo.

“I wish to register our gratitude for the support from the Government of Japan in our fight to change the attitude of people, globally, in the use and care of the environment and, more importantly, mitigating future challenges as a result of climate change,” he added.