Exercise Tradewinds 2023: Partnership strengthened, bilateral relations discussed by PM, visiting US Army General
Prime Minister Brigadier (ret’d) Mark Phillips has reiterated the need for continued partnership between the United States (US) and Guyana, and has called for further strengthening of bilateral relations between the two countries.
The Prime Minister made these remarks on Tuesday at the Marriott Hotel in Georgetown during a dinner hosted by the Commander of the US South Command (USSOUTHCOM), four-star General Laura J. Richardson, in conjunction with the US Embassy in Guyana.
Prime Minister Mark Phillips meeting Commander of the US South Command (USSOUTHCOM), four-star General Laura J. Richardson. Also in photo is GDF Chief of Staff, Brigadier Omar Khan
“As a country, we look forward to continuing our cooperation in all areas of defence, on economic matters and security cooperation,” said Phillips, who is performing the functions of the President.
General Richardson, who is on a two-day visit, expressed appreciation for the collaborative efforts between Guyana and the US, particularly in military and security, and reaffirmed the US Government’s ongoing support in these crucial areas.
US Ambassador to Guyana, Sarah-Ann Lynch, was in attendance at the dinner; as were Guyana Defence Force (GDF) Chief of Staff Brigadier Omar Khan, MSM; National Security Advisor Gerry Gouveia, and other dignitaries and senior military officials.
Before her visit comes to a close today (Thursday), General Richardson aims to hold discussions with the GDF, US Embassy, and Caribbean Community (CARICOM) leaders, regarding the defence partnership between the US and Guyana, and their collaboration with Caricom partners.
Her visit coincided with the staging of Tradewinds 2023, a SOUTHCOMM-sponsored exercise designed to strengthen partnerships between participating defence and public security forces, promote international cooperation, and uphold human rights. General Richardson is expected to participate in the closing ceremony of the exercise at the Arthur Chung Convention Centre (ACCC).
This is not General Richardson’s first visit to Guyana. During her visit last August, she had met with President Dr. Irfaan Ali, key Government officials, and defence leaders.
