Improving security key to attracting investors – US Ambassador

Outgoing United States Ambassador to Guyana, Sarah-Ann Lynch has pointed to the need for Guyana to make improvements on the security front, in order to attract more investors into one of the fastest growing economies in the world.
Speaking during Tuesday morning’s Jumpstart programme with Gordon Moseley, she disclosed, “It’s important for Guyana to improve its security in order to attract more investors here. Investors really want safety, security, predictability. We are working closely to improve that capacity and professionalisation of the Forces but give them tools that they can use to do that work on the ground.”
Ambassador Lynch outlined that the goal of deepening relations between both countries when she entered office has been realised through various partnerships to foster enhanced security and good governance.
“I think with the great work of my team, I have been able to do that. We have really worked in three key areas: governance, prosperity and security cooperation. I think we have done quite a bit. On the governance side, we have been able to strengthen important institutions like the Guyana Revenue Authority.”
On the prosperity side, Lynch noted that they have brought a plethora of US businesses here, where some were able to explore and invest. Now, over 100 US-based companies have established presence here and are working with local firms.
Asked whether the US would intervene directly to instruct investors on which businesses they should partner, she disclosed, “What we do is give them broad information and allow them to do their cost-benefit analysis on who should be a local partner. But we do encourage all US businesses to exercise due-diligence, do their homework, and come to Guyana with a plan.”
Lynch added that US businesses bring the ‘best’ to the local market but also acknowledged that with Guyana’s position now, many choices are there to choose from.
“We know it’s competitive out there…I think it’s by a large, been very successful,” she expressed.

Security
Meanwhile, both countries have deepened their security cooperation to address corruption, trafficking and financial crimes through training of ranks across the Guyana Police Force, Special Organised Crime Unit (SOCU) and the DPP Office.
Commenting on the advisories issued by the State Department, warning persons of the crime rate among other things in Guyana, she claimed that it is a global effort to ensure safety.
“The are not issued just for Guyana by any means. Back in Washington, they analyse situations on the ground in every country and the goal is to give US citizens a heads-up if they need to watch themselves in any particular setting.”
The Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) is still functional and Guyana has requested assistance for additional support to get a handle, as it is considered one of the transit countries for narcotics.
“I know aerial interdictions, marine interdiction is important to Guyana so having a full DEA unit is terrific,” the diplomat added. (G12)