Pres Ali extends greetings to US President; hails Guyana, US ties

President Dr Irfaan Ali has extended congratulations to United States (US) President Donald J. Trump, the Government, and the people of the US on the occasion of the country’s 249th Independence Anniversary.

In a message dispatched to the White House, President Ali conveyed best wishes on behalf of the Government and people of the Co-operative Republic of Guyana, noting the long-standing and friendly relations between the two nations.
“Guyana and the United States have enjoyed decades of friendly relations grounded in the principles of democracy, good governance, and respect for international law,” the message stated. “Our fruitful collaboration has touched several areas of our bilateral co-operation agenda, benefiting both our countries mutually.”
Ali underscored Guyana’s appreciation for the enduring ties with the US and expressed optimism about expanding areas of co-operation. He also reaffirmed his confidence that the bonds of friendship and partnership between the two countries would continue to strengthen.

“I eagerly look forward to meeting and working with you on matters of mutual interest and concern,” President Ali noted in his letter to President Trump.
The Guyanese Head of State also extended his best wishes for the continued success and prosperity of the American people and reaffirmed his highest consideration and esteem for the US President.
At a reception here in Guyana to mark the 249th Independence Anniversary last week, US Ambassador to Guyana, Nicole Theriot revealed that bilateral trade between the two countries reached an all-time high of US$4.7 billion in 2024.
“Our commercial ties continue to deepen and expand,” Ambassador Theriot stated. “Over the past year, we’ve reached another milestone… The number of US companies working with Guyanese partners continues to grow, along with sustained investment across many sectors.”
New US–Guyana ventures over the past year include the establishment of a US-branded hotel, the opening of a primary and secondary school partnership, and the launch of Guyana’s first industrial 3D-printing service by a US firm. Additionally, a US welding and machining company has entered the local market.
Theriot noted that cooperation would continue on major infrastructure initiatives such as the transformative deep-sea port and proposed road and rail projects.
“These are nation-building investments that can shape the trajectory of a country for generations to come,” she said, adding that the US is honoured to be Guyana’s preferred development partner.

Expanding security cooperation
The ambassador also highlighted the growing strength of US–Guyana military and security cooperation. She pointed to the success of the joint hosting of the Lesser Antilles Medical Assistance Team (LAMAT) exercise, which provided medical care to over 1,700 Guyanese across five medical facilities.
Further collaboration includes military training, security exchanges and acquisition initiatives, including the joint development of coastal radar capabilities for the Guyana Defence Force (GDF).
Theriot referenced the recent joint appearance of the GDF Coast Guard vessel SHAHOUD and the US Navy cruiser NORMANDY during a visit by US Secretary of State Marco Rubio as symbolic of deepening military ties.
Law enforcement collaboration has intensified, with joint operations involving the US’s Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), and New York Police Department (NYPD), alongside the GPF, the Special Organised Crime Unit (SOCU), and the Customs Anti-Narcotics Unit (CANU). A major milestone came in August 2024, when a DEA–CANU operation resulted in the seizure of thousands of kilogrammes (kg) of narcotics.

Investing in Guyana’s Youth
Beyond trade and security, the US -Guyana partnership continues to support youth empowerment and community development.
Ambassador Theriot praised the contributions of US exchange alumni and youth-led initiatives like “Steps Towards Literacy,” which promote education and development among Guyanese students. Sports diplomacy programmes have also empowered over 250 athletes, with two securing scholarships to US universities – including national sprinter Malachi Austin, who received a full scholarship to Louisiana State University (LSU).
In June, 25 new Peace Corps volunteers arrived in Guyana, bringing the current total to over 40. Their focus areas include childhood literacy, adolescent health, and environmental education.

Friendship
Last Friday’s reception was held under the theme “A Night in New Orleans”, honouring the rich cultural tapestry of Ambassador Theriot’s home state. Drawing parallels between Guyana and New Orleans, the Ambassador celebrated the shared resilience, diversity, and cultural vibrancy of both places.
“Like Guyana, New Orleans is a melting pot of identities and influences… our greatest strength lies in the harmony and appreciation of the many influences that shape our nations and our shared values,” she said.
The event saw attendance from Prime Minister Brigadier (Ret’d) Mark Phillips, Foreign Minister Hugh Todd, several Cabinet members, opposition representatives, and members of the diplomatic corps.
As both nations look ahead to the US’s 250th Independence Anniversary next year, the spirit of partnership and mutual respect continues to define and elevate Guyana–US relations.