President Donald Ramotar has noted that the relationship between the United States [US] and Guyana must be based on mutual respect, understanding and non – interference in each other’s affairs.
The Head of State made these remarks at a reception last evening, hosted by US Ambassador Brent Hardt to mark the 237th anniversary of the Independence of the US.
President Ramotar used the event as a reminder to western nations about the way in which Guyana is constantly being perceived and lectured.
Only recently the President flayed what he described as subjective and unfair positions taken about the country’s efforts to tackle corruption and Trafficking In Persons (TIP), particularly in the annual US State department reports.
This year Guyana was placed on the Tier Two Watch List for TIP; a ranking for countries whose governments fail to fully comply with the minimum standards in the Trafficking Victims Protection Act but are making significant efforts to bring themselves into compliance.
In his remarks, President Ramotar recalled the principles laid down by the United Nations (UN) about the right of nations to self-determination.
“That is what our early leaders were trying to assert in the struggle for independence and in a post -independent Guyana,” President Ramotar said at the US Ambassador’s residence.
Meanwhile, the benefits that would have accrued through the Guyana/US partnership in the area of health, security, disaster preparedness and the economy were met with high praises from the Guyanese Head of State.
Additionally, US Ambassador Hardt announced that within months, three patrol vessels will be delivered to the Guyana Defence Force (GDF) for the enhancement of counter drugs and anti-piracy efforts.
The conclusion of an open skies agreement bolstered economic ties between the two countries; major exploration deals were sealed with reputable US oil and gas companies, and recently the US co-sponsored an investment seminar to promote investment opportunities for Guyana.
Through the President’s Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief (PEPFAR), the effort to strengthen health services continues with the fight against HIV/AIDS, a main priority.
The opening of a Ministry of Health’s Materials Management Unit warehouse to improve storage and distribution capacity is also credited to the Guyana/US relations.
“Relations between the United States and Guyana and the US and the Caribbean Community have never been closer or more dynamic,” Ambassador Hardt said in his remarks.
In attendance at the reception last evening were Opposition Leaders, David Granger, Khemraj Ramjattan, Members of Parliament and other dignitaries.
