Guyana-France relations growing stronger as nations expand cooperation – PM

Prime Minister (PM) Retired Brigadier Mark Phillips has praised the growing relationship between Guyana and France, describing it as an evolving and strategic partnership built on shared interests and cooperation. The PM made the remarks during a reception hosted aboard the Patrol Vessel La Résolue by French Ambassador to Guyana Olivier Plançon and General Géraud Laborie, Chief of Staff of the Armed Forces in French Guiana, as part of activities marking Guyana’s 60th Independence Anniversary. Reflecting on the country’s Diamond Jubilee celebrations, Phillips said Guyana’s independence journey has been shaped by 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,” the PM stated. Phillips noted that six decades later, Guyana has become one of the world’s fastest-growing economies while maintaining a people-centred approach to development. “Our development agenda remains firmly people-centred, as we advance key sectors such as education, healthcare, energy, agriculture for food security, and infrastructure,” he stated. The PM said Guyana’s vision of building a resilient, inclusive and sustainable nation depends on strong partnerships with countries that share similar values and aspirations. He pointed to France as one of those trusted partners, noting that diplomatic relations between the two countries were established on June 22, 1967, one year after Guyana gained Independence. According to Phillips, relations between Guyana and France have strengthened significantly in recent years, particularly after the 2024 visit by former French Foreign Minister Stéphane Séjourné and his engagement with President Mohamed Irfaan Ali. The PM said the visit resulted in an agreement to establish a Joint Working Group aimed at expanding cooperation in areas including defence, climate change, food security, technology, infrastructure and tourism. Phillips also described the opening of the French Embassy in Georgetown as a demonstration of France’s commitment to strengthening bilateral ties and investing in future cooperation with Guyana. He highlighted the importance of continued collaboration on environmental protection, climate resilience and biodiversity preservation, particularly given the countries’ shared responsibility for the Amazon and the Guiana Shield. The PM also stressed the need for stronger cooperation in regional security and defence amid ongoing concerns over transnational crime, illegal trafficking, cyber threats and geopolitical tensions. “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,” Phillips said. On economic relations, the PM said there is potential for increased French investment and expertise in renewable energy, infrastructure, transportation, fisheries, sustainable agriculture and tourism. He also acknowledged the presence of French companies operating in Guyana, including Rubis and Technip. Phillips further expressed appreciation for France’s support for Guyana’s sovereignty and territorial integrity amid Venezuela’s 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,” he stated. The PM also thanked Ambassador Plançon, General Laborie, and the Government and people of France for joining Guyana in commemorating its 60th Independence Anniversary.