–extends condolences to President Ali, pledges support in wake of deadly ferry disaster
FRENCH President Emmanuel Macron has extended his deepest condolences to President Dr. Mohamed Irfaan Ali and the People of Guyana following the tragic sinking of the MV Barima ferry, reaffirming France’s solidarity during the national tragedy.
In a letter dated July 27, 2026, President Macron said he learnt “with great sadness” of the sinking of the ferry on Saturday, July 18, and conveyed his heartfelt sympathies to the Government and People of Guyana, as well as to the families affected by the disaster.
“I wish to extend to you, and to the people of the Co-operative Republic of Guyana, on my own behalf and on behalf of the French people, my heartfelt condolences following this national tragedy,” the French President wrote.
President Macron noted that Guyana and France share a long-standing relationship founded on neighbourliness, trust, and solidarity.
“Our two countries are bound by a relationship of neighbourliness and trust, rooted in the ties that unite the territories of the Guiana Shield. It was in this spirit of solidarity that the Armed Forces in French Guiana swiftly mobilised to support the search operations conducted by the Guyanese authorities,” he stated.
The French Armed Forces in French Guiana joined regional efforts to assist Guyana’s search-and-rescue operations following the maritime disaster, underscoring the close cooperation between the neighbouring territories in times of crisis.
President Macron also offered his thoughts to the bereaved families and all those impacted by the tragedy.
“My thoughts are with the families and loved ones of the victims, as well as with all those affected by this tragedy,” he wrote.
He concluded the letter by asking President Ali to accept “the assurances of my highest consideration”.
The message from the French leader adds to the international outpouring of sympathy and support Guyana has received following the MV Barima tragedy, which claimed multiple lives, and prompted an extensive search- and-rescue effort involving local and regional partners.
