The People’s Liberation Army (PLA) of China on Monday gifted the Guyana Defence Force (GDF) some 31 pieces of machinery to boost its land, air and sea defence.
Army Chief Patrick West said the gesture by the Chinese Government has bolstered the already robust relationship between the two entities.
Some of the equipment gifted to the GDF by the PLA
“I can say without reservations that the Guyana Defence Force was the recipient of land, air and seas’ resources. It also received valuable training, which added value to our human capital, thereby improving our capabilities of fulfilling our role.”
Chinese Ambassador to Guyana, Cui Jianchun said this year marked the 45th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic ties between the two countries. He said no matter how international relations changed around the world, the relationship his country has with Guyana has been developing constantly.
“The People’s Liberation Army of China and the Guyana Defence Force have also enjoyed ever-growing and friendly relations with constant high-level visits, regular officer exchanges and operation between the two armies. Our militaries’ mutual trust increase continuously.”
He said the PLA stood ready to continue the relationship.
According to the Ambassador, China’s army has for many years been providing military aid and training to the GDF which has in fact improved the relationship and capacity of the Force.
Attending the handing-over ceremony, President David Granger said it symbolised the friendship between the two countries which, although thousands of miles apart, were nonetheless close in commitment to international peace and security. The equipment will be used for the protection of the country, he noted.
The Head of State said the GDF was entrusted with the protection of the country’s patrimony. The Force, however, faces a number of challenges in safeguarding the country’s airspace, land borders, marine resources and rivers. He said Guyana, although a small state, had incomparable national assets.
According to President Granger, Guyana’s infrastructural development is of top priority. As such, the technical corps of the GDF must be strengthened for it to perform effectively to contribute to national development by protecting the territory and preventing transnational crime.
He said national defence enabled and ensured public security by guaranteeing safety for citizens, by providing assurances to investors and visitors, and by contributing to an enabling environment for investment.
Among the machinery handed over to the GDF are motor graders, wheeled excavators, wheeled loaders, vibratory loaders, wheeled dozers, field ambulances, electric crushers, and air compressors.
Training in the use of the machinery will be provided by Chinese officials.
