AS Guyana celebrates its 46th independence anniversary, greetings continue to pour in, with several countries recommitting to strengthening their relations with Guyana. British Guiana became independent Guyana on May 26, 1966, after years of British colonial rule and determined efforts by Dr. Cheddi Jagan and Forbes Burnham, among others.

From India
President of India, H.E. Pratibha Devisingh Patil, expressed greetings on behalf of the Government and people of India and on her own behalf. The message read: “The warm and friendly relations between India and Guyana have, in recent times, been further enhanced through exchange of high level visits and people to people contacts. Our bilateral relations have gained momentum through ongoing technical and development co-operation. Our close contacts in the UN and interaction through CARICOM signify our enduring commitment to the cause of developing countries, and I am confident that under your leadership this spirit of cooperation will continue.”
She expressed best wishes for the continued progress and prosperity of the people of Guyana.

From Her Majesty –the Queen of England
Independence greetings from Buckingham Palace to President Donald Ramotar and the People of Guyana from Her Majesty, Queen Elizabeth 2.
The message read, “It gives me great pleasure to send your Excellency my congratulations on the celebration of your National Day, together with my best wishes for the happiness and prosperity of the Government and people of Guyana in the coming year.”

From the Kingdom of the Netherlands
Her Majesty Queen Beatrix’s message stated: “On the occasion of your National Day, I extend to Your Excellency my congratulations and my best wishes for the well-being of the people of Guyana.”

From Cuba
Cuban President Raul Castro Ruz’s message read, “On the occasion of the 46th Anniversary of the Independence of the Cooperative Republic of Guyana, I cordially congratulate you and renew to you the resolve to continue enhancing the relations of friendship and cooperation between our countries… Please accept the assurances of my highest consideration.”