—as Region Three continues to be rapidly transformed 

–with other major infrastructural projects, housing expansion, private-sector investments ongoing, President Ali says

THE newly commissioned Guyana–China Friendship Park at Schoonord, on the West Bank of Demerara, Region Three, is a tangible expression of decades of co-operation, President, Dr Irfaan Ali said on Sunday, as he officially opened the modern recreational facility to the public.

Delivering the feature address, the Head of State noted that the project is a living symbol of a partnership now deeply embedded in Guyana’s development trajectory.

The new space spans 66,700 square metres and features, among other facilities, Chinese-style pavilions, a basketball court, table tennis court, children’s activity centre and open-air theatre space.

“Here you will find benches for the weary, paths for the wandering and space for the simple sacred act of being together. To the government and people of the People’s Republic of China, we receive this gift as a treasure,” President Ali said.

The President paid tribute to the early Chinese immigrants and their descendants, noting that although their numbers were relatively small, their economic and social impact was substantial.

He underscored that Guyana’s co-operation with China extends well beyond construction, referencing active collaboration in health, education, security, trade, agriculture, sport and culture.

Chinese assistance, he said, has consistently been welcomed and valued, and the new Guyana–China Friendship Park should be seen as a physical manifestation of an “unbreakable friendship” rooted in shared history and people-to-people links.

He urged Guyanese to take ownership of the facility, to use it, protect it and ensure it does not become a neglected monument, but instead remains alive with activity, joy and pride.

Meanwhile, China’s Ambassador to Guyana, Yang Yang, disclosed that the park also serves as a tribute to Guyana’s 60th independence anniversary and a symbol of the enduring friendship between the two nations.

Reflecting on Guyana’s rapid development and the resilience of its people, the ambassador expressed strong confidence in future collaboration across all fields, citing other massive projects such as the constructions of six regional hospitals and the most recently commissioned Dr Bharrat Jagdeo Demerara River Bridge, which overlooks the park.

“Looking back to the year I’ve worked here, I’ve been constantly amazed by Guyana’s rapid development and Guyanese people’s resilience. Thereby, I’m remarkably confident in our future co-operation across all fields,” Ambassador Yang Yang said.

Constructed over 18 months by Chinese companies, the park is a modern, multi‑functional recreational space of its kind.

Ambassador Yang highlighted the use of durable materials, advanced technology and high construction standards, stressing the project’s commitment to ‘green’ and sustainable development.

“In addition, the design exemplifies the people-centred philosophy shared by our two nations. Not only can people find diverse sports fields for football, basketball and table tennis, it also provides a public space for all citizens to relax, entertain, and enjoy themselves in all possible ways,” the ambassador said.

TRANSFORMATION AT A RAPID PACE

Addressing the crowd in Region Three directly, Dr Ali spoke at length about ongoing and planned projects in the area.

He listed the Del Conte Road, already under construction, and the four-lane road from Crane to Parika, alongside the design work for a four-lane road back to Wales.

He referenced progress on the Sand Hills Road, and pointed to new ports and marine facilities expected to bring substantial private investment to the West Demerara corridor.

Dr Ali said: “Every time I speak about these investments, I want to hear Region Three. I want to hear you on the highest point of the Bharrat Jagdeo Demerara River Bridge.”

The President also revealed that construction has already begun on approximately thousands of new homes in Region Three.

He linked these housing initiatives to larger industrial developments, including the Wales Industrial Estate, which, he said, would anchor the region’s future economy and create hundreds of jobs.

Among other planned investments are a glass factory tied to the gas-to-energy project, a gas-processing plant, a data centre designed to serve not only Guyana, but also the wider region, and a fertiliser plant.

He also announced that another national stadium would be built in Region Three, reinforcing the area’s role in sport, entertainment and community life.

President Ali also mentioned expressions of interest from the private sector in establishing a domestic airport in Region Three, comparable to the Ogle facility on the East Coast of Demerara