-assures nation of ‘steadfast support’ in ongoing border controversy with Venezuela

AS Guyana celebrated its 59th independence anniversary, Secretary General of the Caribbean Community (CARICOM), Dr Carla Barnett, has hailed Guyana’s significant growth and its pivotal role in advancing regional integration.

Dr Barnett in her message congratulated the government and the people of Guyana and noted that as one of the world’s fastest-growing economies fuelled by the petroleum sector, the country has made significant progress in development.

The CARICOM SG emphasised that this progress has been achieved while ensuring the protection of the country’s extensive natural ecosystems.

“Guyana can also be justifiably proud of its prominence in international and regional diplomacy,” she said.

To this end, it was noted that Guyana’s non-permanent membership on the United Nations Security Council has been backed by a strong commitment to upholding international law, while also ensuring that the voice of the Caribbean contributes to shaping the discourse of global security.

“We anticipate that Guyana will continue its outstanding work in the multilateral sphere, including through its upcoming presidency of the Security Council, to advance the regional agenda on priority issues such as climate change and the multifaceted crisis in Haiti,” she said.

Further to this, in CARICOM, the Secretary General noted that the country plays a central role in advancing regional integration in the discharge of responsibilities for agriculture, agricultural diversification and food security, among other things.

With leadership in food security, she stated that efforts to reduce the region’s food-import bill by 25 per cent by the year 2030 have led to significant progress in this sector.

Additionally, she indicated that the role Guyana plays in developing digital education and training, regional transportation, among other things, will redound to the benefit of the people of the region.

Meanwhile, the SG added, “However, the border controversy with Venezuela remains of perennial concern. You may be assured that CARICOM is steadfast in its support for Guyana’s sovereignty, security and territorial integrity.

She further extended regards and best wishes as Guyana continues to pursue its developmental agenda.