Guyana has signalled its intention to become a global leader in biodiversity and ecosystem services as President Dr. Irfaan Ali, on an official visit to the United Kingdom, announced plans for a Commonwealth Centre of Excellence on Biodiversity in Guyana and revealed renewed backing from King Charles III for the country’s pioneering work on climate, forests and the environment.
The Head of State, in a video posted to his Facebook page this morning, disclosed that discussions were held on creating a market-based biodiversity financing model to fund conservation and ecosystem services.
Discussions focused on ongoing collaborations in the areas of the environment, biodiversity, and climate.
He stressed that the government intends to position the country as a global leader in biodiversity and ecosystem services, linked to pharmaceuticals, indigenous culture, rights and language.
President Ali and his delegation also met with the Commonwealth Secretary-General Shirley Botchwey, who he confirmed is backing the establishment of a Commonwealth Centre of Excellence on Biodiversity in Guyana.
“I think there are some exciting announcements, some exciting programmes and exciting opportunities ahead of us, and this is all part of building that resilient, sustainable economy that has diversified not only diversified in traditional areas, but diversified in new areas that are future proof,” the President said.
Back in July 2025, Guyana had launched the global biodiversity summit, where several leaders signed what is known as the Georgetown Declaration, an ambitious roadmap to protect and conserve biodiversity, halt biodiversity loss, and accelerate nature-positive action.
