Prime Minister, Brigadier (Ret’d), Mark Phillips, has lauded the longstanding friendship between Guyana and the French Republic, noting that the relationship has continued to evolve into a stronger and more strategic partnership.
The Prime Minister delivered remarks at a reception hosted aboard the Patrol Vessel La Résolue by Ambassador of France to Guyana, His Excellency Olivier Plançon, and General Géraud Laborie, Chief of Staff of the Armed Forces in French Guiana, in celebration of Guyana’s 60th Independence Anniversary.
Reflecting on the significance of Guyana’s Diamond Jubilee, Prime Minister Phillips said the country’s independence remains a continuing journey grounded in resilience, unity, innovation and strong international partnerships. “On May 26, 1966, our nation emerged as a sovereign state, bringing an end to more than 350 years of colonial rule. Guyana took its rightful place among the family of nations, embarking on a path to self-governance with dignity and determination.”
He noted that, sixty years later, Guyana has been transformed into one of the fastest-growing economies in the world, while continuing to place its people at the centre of its national development agenda. “Our development agenda remains firmly people-centred, as we advance key sectors such as education, healthcare, energy, agriculture for food security, and infrastructure.”
Prime Minister Phillips added, “Guyana endeavours to build a resilient, inclusive and sustainable nation, and we recognise that achieving this vision requires trusted partners who share our values and aspirations.”
The Prime Minister highlighted France’s role as one such trusted partner, noting that diplomatic relations between Guyana and France were established on June 22, 1967, one year after Guyana attained independence.
He said that relations between the two countries have advanced significantly in recent years, particularly following the 2024 visit of former French Foreign Minister Stéphane Séjourné to Guyana and his engagement with His Excellency President Dr Mohamed Irfaan Ali.
Phillips explained that the visit marked an important turning point, with both countries agreeing to establish a Joint Working Group to deepen cooperation in areas such as defence, climate change, food security, technology, infrastructure and tourism. Further, he described the opening of the Embassy of France in Georgetown as a symbol of France’s commitment to strengthening relations with Guyana and a tangible investment in the future relationship between the two countries.
He underscored the importance of continued cooperation between Guyana and France in environmental protection, climate resilience and biodiversity preservation, particularly given the shared responsibility for the Amazon and the Guiana Shield.
Pointing to the importance of enhanced cooperation in regional security and defence, the Prime Minister noted that closer collaboration is essential at a time when transnational crime, illegal trafficking, cyber threats and geopolitical tensions continue to affect the region. “Our growing defence cooperation demonstrates the trust and confidence that exist between our countries, and we look forward to expanding joint initiatives in maritime security, intelligence sharing and other areas.”
On economic cooperation, he noted that there is significant scope for greater French investment and expertise in renewable energy, infrastructure, transportation, fisheries, sustainable agriculture and tourism. He also acknowledged French companies that have already established a presence in Guyana, including SBL, Rubis and Technip.
He also expressed Guyana’s appreciation for France’s support for Guyana’s sovereignty and territorial integrity, particularly in relation to Venezuela’s unlawful claim to the Essequibo region.
“France has consistently called on Venezuela to respect Guyana’s sovereignty and territorial integrity, international law and the order of the International Court of Justice. This mark of solidarity speaks volumes of a true friend that not only speaks about international law but defends it.” (Office of the Prime Minister)
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