Guyana’s 56th Republic Day: US reaffirms steadfast commitment to bilateral partnership with Guyana

The United States Embassy in Guyana on Monday on its social media platform extended congratulations to the people of Guyana on the occasion of its 56th Republic Day. The embassy’s statement reaffirmed the United States’ steadfast commitment to the bilateral partnership with Guyana, grounded in shared democratic values and a mutual commitment to regional security and prosperity.
Meanwhile, his Republic Anniversary address to the nation on Sunday, Guyana’s President Dr Irfaan Ali acknowledged the support Guyana has received from the international community in defence of its sovereignty and territorial integrity. He specifically recognised diplomatic partners for their continued backing as Guyana navigates a longstanding border controversy with Venezuela. President Ali reiterated Guyana’s commitment to resolving the dispute through international law at the International Court of Justice (ICJ) and expressed confidence in a favourable ruling later this year.
Guyana has faced periodic tensions with Venezuela, including what government officials have characterised as instances of heightened aggression. Despite the dispute, President Ali underscored that the nation remains committed to peaceful legal avenues for resolution and highlighted the role of Guyanese Defence Forces along the border. He acknowledged the provision of “unprecedented resources” by his administration to enhance the capabilities of personnel tasked with safeguarding national security.
In his address, the President also thanked members of the diplomatic community for their support, saying their steadfast engagement strengthens Guyana’s position on the international stage. The Republic Day address reaffirmed the government’s pledge to defend the country’s territorial integrity and called on all Guyanese to appreciate the sacrifices of service members charged with protecting the nation.
The US State Department has on several occasions over the years reaffirmed its unwavering support for Guyana’s territorial integrity in the Venezuela border controversy.
The US, along with the other members of the ABCE community – United Kingdom (UK), Canada and the European Union (EU) had played a crucial role at the 2020 elections in ensuring Guyana’s democracy was not derailed, and had even issued visa sanctions on top officials in the country who were involved in attempts to subvert the March 2, 2020 elections.
Those rigging attempts by the then A Partnership for National Unity/Alliance For Change (APNU/AFC) Coalition Government to stay in power had resulted in a five-month political deadlock before the current People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C) Administration was finally declared the winner and sworn in to office on August 2, 2020.
The ABCE diplomatic missions in Guyana were at the time vocal in their calls for democracy to prevail and for the will of the Guyanese people to be respected.
Guyana’s Republic Day, observed on February 23, marks the nation’s transition to a republic in 1970, following independence from British colonial rule in 1966.