–President Ali tells delegation from Guiana Shield Strategic Dialogue Conference

PRESIDENT Dr. Irfaan Ali on Tuesday emphasised the government’s commitment to enhancing regional security in all areas, as he met with a delegation from the Guiana Shield Strategic Dialogue Conference.

The Head of State’s comment, on his official Facebook Page, followed the signing of a common masterplan to address security challenges in the Guiana Shield, and strengthen security cooperation among Guyana, Suriname and French Guiana.
The visiting team included Suriname’s Minister of Defence Krishnakoemarie Mathoera, and French Ambassador to Guyana Nicolas De Lacoste.

Also present was Minister of Home Affairs Robeson Benn; Chief of Defence Staff of the GDF Brigadier Omar Khan, and other representatives from Suriname and French Guiana.

During their conversation, President Ali emphasised the government’s commitment to enhancing regional security in all aspects, and expressed his hope that the agreement will boost relationships and collaborations among the nations. The countries are also collaborating with Brazil on the initiative.

The third Guiana Shield Strategic Dialogue opened on Monday with discussions surrounding the security of the environment of all countries involved.
The Guiana Shield, which spans some 270 million hectares, includes Guyana, Suriname, French Guiana, Venezuela, small portions of Colombia, and Northern Brazil.

During the opening ceremony on Monday, Prime Minister Brigadier (Ret’d) Mark Phillips stressed the need for collective action to protect the Shield, and to address issues like deforestation, biodiversity loss, climate change and the illegal wildlife trade among other things.