Potential exists for greater bilateral collaboration
– PM Hinds

PRIME Minister Samuel Hinds said Sunday evening, that there is potential for greater collaboration between India and Guyana.
He was speaking at a reception, hosted by Indian High Commissioner, Puran Mal Meena at the Indian Cultural Centre (ICC), Bel Air Park, Georgetown, to mark India’s 65th Republic Anniversary.

Performing the duties of Head of State, Mr. Hinds congratulated the diplomat and emphasised that his country has been “a good friend” of Guyana.
The Prime Minister said, “Guyana and India have enjoyed very good relations since the establishment of ties on May 26, 1966. These relations, based on the shared values and economic and cultural aspirations, have strengthened over the years.
“It is our government’s sincere desire to further expand and deepen our cooperation.
“India has been a good friend to Guyana by helping to build human capacities, through programmes like the Indian Technical and Economic Cooperation (ITEC) programme. Guyana has received assistance in the fields of education, agriculture, science and technology and culture,” he added.

ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT
Hinds pointed out that Guyana, in the area of economic development, has benefited from several bilateral agreements, which have had positive impacts on local development.
He alluded to significant and tangible examples of these in the number of doctors and other medical staff who are working in Guyana.
Hinds indicated that Guyana intends to deepen ties in this area upon the completion of the Specialty Hospital for which, last December, it secured some $34.5M which was a mobilisation advance for a consultancy firm to oversee works on the project that was initially cut from the 2013 Budget.
He acknowledged that Indian experts here have made notable contributions to the socio-economic development and many continue to do so.
Hinds also made reference to the close cultural bonds the countries share and welcomed the continued cooperation through the ICC, where Guyanese have, over the years benefited from yoga, dance and other classes.
He said India is the largest democracy in the world and, despite its challenges, has made significant strides in key developmental areas, including Information Communication and Technology (ICT) and agriculture.

Calling for the strengthening of bilateral ties, Hinds lauded the efforts of the High Commissioner to diversify and strengthen them during his tenure.
“We hope to maintain this momentum and take advantage of the potential for greater collaboration,” he reiterated.

Last appearances
The reception was expected to be one of the last appearances of the envoy, whose likely departure is at month end.
In his remarks on Sunday night, Meena said, “Continued relations have consolidated our relationship. India is committed to further development of Guyana. We will continue to consolidate links with Guyana.”
Identifying increased presence of Indian investors in the local economy, he stated, “Both India and Guyana are committed to promoting equitable economic development.”
Meena agreed that the countries share common views on several matters, particularly in relation to the socio-economic development of the peoples of both countries.
He also referred to the many successes his country has made in the 65 years since its independence, and the moves to improve bilateral ties with other nations.
“India and Guyana have always enjoyed good relations based on historical and cultural ties, shared values of democracy and freedoms, respect for each other on the basis of equality, respect for multicultural society and a firm belief in unity,” Meena said.
Government Ministers, Opposition Leader, David Granger, other Members of Parliament (MPs) and stakeholders from the different sections of society, as well as Indian nationals resident in Guyana were present at the function.

(By Vanessa Narine)