GUYANA and the Dominican Republic are moving to strengthen agricultural co-operation as Minister of Agriculture, Zulfikar Mustapha, continues a series of high-level engagements in the Caribbean nation aimed at advancing agricultural development and expanding bilateral partnerships.
During an official visit to the Dominican Republic, Minister Mustapha met with his counterpart, Francisco Oliverio Espaillat Bencosme, to discuss opportunities for collaboration in crop production, technology transfer and agricultural innovation.
The discussions focused on areas of mutual interest and explored ways both countries can work together to increase the production of several crops in Guyana while enhancing agricultural productivity and value-added production. The ministers also examined avenues for technical co-operation, including the exchange of expertise, modern farming technologies and best practices that could support the continued growth of the agricultural sectors in both countries.
As part of his visit, Minister Mustapha also held talks with former Dominican Republic President, Hipólito Mejía, a prominent figure in the country’s agricultural sector. Discussions centred on the future development of Guyana’s agriculture industry, opportunities for knowledge transfer and the implementation of initiatives aimed at increasing production and diversification.
The engagements form part of ongoing efforts by the Guyana Government to modernise and expand the country’s agricultural sector while strengthening regional partnerships. Agriculture remains a key pillar of Guyana’s economic diversification strategy, with the government investing heavily in infrastructure, drainage and irrigation systems, research, and support programmes designed to boost food production and reduce the region’s food import bill.
The latest discussions also build on previous engagements between the two countries. Earlier this year, a Dominican Republic delegation visited Guyana and met with President Dr Irfaan Ali and Minister Mustapha to explore opportunities for co-operation in crop production, agro-processing, capacity building and the transfer of agricultural technologies.
Guyana and the Dominican Republic have increasingly sought to expand collaboration in agriculture as Caribbean countries work toward improving food security under the CARICOM-led “25 by 2025” initiative, which aims to reduce the region’s food import dependence through increased local production and stronger regional partnerships.
Officials have indicated that the continued dialogue between the two nations could pave the way for future agreements and joint initiatives that support sustainable agricultural growth, improve productivity and create new opportunities for farmers and agribusinesses in Guyana.