THE international community has expressed an outpouring of sympathy and support for Guyana following the tragic capsizing of the MV Barima, with governments, regional organisations and diplomatic missions extending condolences and offering assistance as search-and-rescue operations continue.
Among the first to respond was the United States Embassy in Guyana, which said it was “deeply saddened” by the tragedy.
“Our heartfelt condolences go to the families of those on board — passengers and crew alike. We honour the courage of every rescuer who answered the call in the dark hours of the night and who continue their mission today. We pray for the safe recovery of all those still missing,” the embassy said.
The Embassy of the People’s Republic of China also conveyed its sympathy, saying it was closely following developments and expressing concern for the passengers, crew members and their families.
The embassy said it sincerely hopes the search-and-rescue operation will proceed smoothly and that everyone aboard will return safely, adding that China stands ready to provide assistance in keeping with Guyana’s needs.
Across the Caribbean, governments and regional leaders also voiced solidarity with Guyana.
The Government of Belize extended condolences to President Dr Mohamed Irfaan Ali, the Government and people of Guyana, particularly families who have lost loved ones or are awaiting news of relatives. Belize also commended the dedication and courage of emergency responders involved in the rescue efforts.
Jamaican Prime Minister, Dr Andrew Holness, said he was deeply saddened by the capsizing and expressed solidarity with President Ali, the Government and people of Guyana.
“Our thoughts and prayers are with everyone impacted by this event, as well as the brave rescue teams who continue their efforts with dedication and courage,” Holness said.
The Government of The Bahamas likewise offered prayers and support to Guyana, reaffirming the close friendship between the two CARICOM member states while wishing for the safe recovery of those still missing and a speedy recovery for those injured.
Meanwhile, Trinidad and Tobago Prime Minister, Kamla Persad-Bissessar, extended condolences to President Ali and the people of Guyana, while revealing that Trinidad and Tobago Defence Force air and naval assets, along with personnel, are assisting in the ongoing recovery effort.
“Trinidad and Tobago stands in solidarity with our brothers and sisters in Guyana as they anxiously await the safe return of their loved ones,” Persad-Bissessar said.
St. Kitts and Nevis Prime Minister, Dr Terrance Drew, said the people and Government of his country stand with Guyana during this difficult time.
“In moments like these, we are reminded that the Caribbean is one family,” he said while offering prayers for those still unaccounted for and support for rescue personnel.
In a statement, the Caribbean Community (CARICOM) said it was deeply saddened by the tragedy and continued to closely monitor the ongoing search-and-rescue operation.
CARICOM paid tribute to the courage, dedication and selfless efforts of rescue teams, including members of the Guyana Government, private vessel operators and emergency responders who mobilised overnight under difficult conditions.
“The Community stands in solidarity with the Government and people of Guyana, particularly the families and communities affected by this unfolding disaster,” the statement said.
The Delegation of the European Union in Guyana also expressed sadness over the incident, extending its thoughts to those still missing and their loved ones while commending the tireless efforts of the search-and-rescue teams.
“The European Union stands in solidarity with Guyana during this difficult time,” the delegation said.
The messages of support continue to pour in as Guyana presses ahead with an extensive search-and-rescue operation to account for all passengers and crew members who were aboard the MV Barima when it capsized off the country’s coast.
