PRIME Minister, Brigadier (Ret’d) Mark Phillips, performing the functions of President, attended a reception hosted by the Ambassador of the Russian Federation to Guyana, HE Andrey A. Pritsepov, on Friday night at the Russian Embassy in Georgetown.
The event commemorated the 81st Victory Day Anniversary of the Second World War.
Delivering remarks, Prime Minister Phillips honoured the memory of those who gave their lives during the Second World War and acknowledged the immense sacrifices made across the Soviet Union and among all Allied nations.
“In hindsight, this was not the achievement of any single nation. It was a collective victory, one forged through shared sacrifice, resilience, and an unyielding commitment to a common purpose. That lesson remains as relevant today as it was in 1945.”
He noted that the end of the war remains a defining moment in history, not only because of its military significance, but because of the principles it helped to preserve. He also reflected on Guyana’s place in that history, noting that although Guyana is a small nation, its contribution to the wider Allied effort remains a source of national pride.
The Prime Minister said the occasion also served as a reminder that every nation, regardless of size or geography, has a role to play in advancing peace and safeguarding the values that bind the international community.
“Guyana continues to support a global order rooted in co-operation, mutual respect, and dialogue. We believe firmly that diplomacy must remain at the forefront of efforts to address conflict and preserve peace. On this basis, Guyana reiterates its firm commitment to the rules‑based international order as an essential system for fostering human progress, international peace and comity.”
The acting Head of State reaffirmed Guyana’s support for a rules‑based international order, noting that cooperation, collective action and respect for the sovereignty of all peoples remain central to building a more peaceful and equitable world.
“Let us work together to ensure that the sacrifices of those who came before us were not in vain, and that future generations inherit a world that is peaceful, just and secure.”
Prime Minister Phillips was accompanied by his wife, Mrs Mignon Bowen‑Phillips and Minister of Health and Acting Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Co-operation, Dr Frank Anthony. (OPM)
