IN a demonstration of the US’ commitment to defend democracy, combat COVID-19 while revitalising economies in wake of the pandemic, Secretary of State, Michael Pompeo, will visit several countries, including Guyana.

This is according to the US Department of State which also noted that strengthening of security against regional threats will also be a main feature of Pompeo’s discussions.

The secretary of state will visit Suriname before reaching Guyana while trips are also planned for Boa Vista, Brazil; Bogota, Colombia; and Plano, Texas.

In Paramaribo, Pompeo will celebrate the triumph of democracy by meeting with recently-elected Surinamese President, Chan Santokhi and his Cabinet to discuss increased bilateral cooperation and opportunities for partnerships in energy and security.

In Guyana, Secretary Pompeo will congratulate newly-elected President, Dr Irfaan Ali, and his Cabinet and meet with CARICOM Secretary-General, Irwin LaRocque.

He will reinforce the promise of a values-based U.S. partnership, highlighting opportunities for more responsible and transparent private sector investment to increase prosperity for the people of Guyana, particularly in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic.

In Boa Vista, Brazil, Secretary Pompeo will underscore the importance of U.S. and Brazilian support for the Venezuelan people in their time of need by visiting with Venezuelan migrants fleeing the man-made disaster in Venezuela.

Secretary Pompeo will then travel to Bogota to meet with Colombian President, Ivan Duque, to discuss the strong partnership the countries share, including in managing the COVID-19 response, promoting mutual prosperity and tackling the threats to regional security from narco-traffickers, terror groups and Maduro’s illegitimate regime.

Finally, Secretary Pompeo will return to the US to discuss Department of State priorities at Prestonwood Baptist Church in Plano, Texas.