PRESIDENT David Granger, Guyana Defence Force (GDF) Chief of Staff Patrick West, senior army officers and members of the diplomatic community, were among a number of guests at the Marriott Hotel Friday evening to bid farewell to outgoing Brazilian Defence, Naval and Army Attaché to Guyana, Colonel Oswaldo Benedito Ramao da Silva, as he handed over responsibilities to his successor, Colonel Emerson Deni da Silva.

It was a simple Act of Assumption before Brazilian Ambassador to Guyana, Lineu Pupa De Paulo, which signified the change in leadership.
The outgoing Attaché told the gathering that it was an honour being able to work in neighbouring Guyana, which is also a friendly port.  “I learnt a lot from the Guyanese people and today I am proud to look at myself as now part of Guyana’s history…” The colonel extended much thanks to the people whom he said, “helped me to do a good job for the Guyana Defence Force and the Brazilian army.”

Colonel Deni da Silva told the Guyana Chronicle that he and his family arrived in Guyana about two weeks ago. “We are very happy and proud to be in Guyana.” The Attaché said his mission in Guyana was, “to represent the presence of the Brazilian Defence Force and the army and the navy in relation to the Guyana Defence Force.”
Guyana and Brazil have enjoyed friendly and co-operative ties, with both sides constantly being engaged in friendly military exchanges.

Last August, the 20th Guyana/Brazil Military Intelligence Exchange convened under the theme, “Continued Friendship and Partnership towards Enhanced Border Security.”
In this regard, it is said that the two countries face common challenges in national security. One of the main foci of the two militaries’ partnership is border security.
Colonel Deni da Silva brings to Guyana experience in jungle warfare, intelligence, and border control among others. Deni da Silva is also the holder of four medals of dedication and performance.