The Guyana Defence Force (GDF) is focused on strategy, technology and partnerships as it continues its mission to safeguard the country’s borders.
This is according to Chief of Defence Staff of the GDF, Brigadier Omar Khan on the first edition of a programme ‘Safeguarding our Nation’ streamed on Tuesday morning.
Noting that “Venezuela and their claim to the Essequibo is more political theatre than a military threat”, Brigadier Khan said the GDF is being cautious and strategic, smart and resolute in its policies.
He added that investments in aerial and maritime defence has increased to over 800%, backed by training and technological support.
Brigadier Khan emphasised that integral in this process is partnership with allies including United States, United Kingdom, CARICOM, France, Brazil and others who value peace.
Asked about Venezuelan’s army being bigger than Guyana’s, he said “size does not translate into success, that is why we are focusing on strategy, on technology and partnership, military conflict is not in anyone’s interest. The claim by Venezuela is political, it should remain there and the process of the ICJ should be followed.”
The Army Chief noted that beyond security, the GDF is also focused on contributing to national development.
Questioned about Guyana’s position on welcoming Venezuelan migrants at a time when that country remains a threat, he noted that the GDF is approaching the matter from a humanitarian point of view but is ensuring there is strict vetting of those entering the country.
“While Guyana is approaching this with compassion, we are committed to safe borders in the protection of our borders and that is why we have implemented strong security measures on vetting, processing, documenting all Venezuelan migrants and this is another example where there is a multi-agency approach,” he noted.
He added that while Guyana is receiving thousands of migrants, Colombia and Brazil have millions.
He also expressed confidence that the army will continue to curb transnational crime penetrating its borders.
The final decision regarding the Arbitral Award of October 3, 1899, Guyana v Venezuela is pending before the International Court of Justice (ICJ).
Meanwhile, Brigadier Khan is encouraging youths to join the GDF.
“I believe I feel what’s going through the minds of our young people today – what should I do? What can I do? What are the opportunities?- and I say to them, the military is your calling. Even if you don’t know what you want, you will find yourself and it doesn’t matter which community or village you’re from” he urged.
“We are looking for the next generation of defenders, you can be an engineer, a pilot, a cyber security specialist, let your story begin in uniform, let it begin in service to Guyana,” he added.
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