The prospects for improvement and collaboration in the areas of food security, agricultural, infrastructural and youth development were discussed between officials of Linden and Region 10 ( Upper Demerara-Berbice ) and Chinese Ambassador to Guyana, Cui Jianchun and team, when officials from both sides met for discussions at the Watooka Complex in Linden.
Several other initiatives such as manufacturing, elevated Internet and the complete
mapping of Region 10 and its agricultural lands were also discussed. It is the second time in recent months that officials of the region met with officials of the Chinese Embassy to discuss future developments. Also present were Economic and Commercial Councillor Shen Hui Yong, Regional Chairman Renis Morian, Linden Mayor Carwyn Holland, representatives of the Linden municipality and Regional Democratic Council, as well as representatives of bauxite company Bosai Minerals Group Guyana Incorporated, including Community Relations Officer Vanessa Mitchell Davis, General Manager Eric Yu and Kenny Peng, among other officials.
The development of a deep water harbour in the region and the possibilities of securing scholarships for students to pursue studies in China were also some of the initiatives presented by regional officials. During the discourse, Morian stated his belief that Region 10 will be the next frontier in Guyana for development. He added that the Linden to Lethem road will also be fundamental, noting that Region 10 is strategically positioned. The Regional Chairman further highlighted the need for capacity building in the areas of mining and agriculture. He said presently, the region is looking for investors for the Linden airstrip to be resuscitated, explaining that it is shorter by air to Brazil. Further addressing members of the Chinese delegation, Morian spoke of the region’s five-year plan under the Plan of Action for Regional Development (PARD) as he made the pitch for collaboration.
Meanwhile, Mayor Holland in his address asked for assistance with the digital mapping of the region, among other things. He noted that he has already sought assistance from the Inter-American Development Bank (IDB) for a feasibility study to allow for the inclusion of a rail along the Linden to Lethem road as he also sought assistance in this regard. Holland noted that the Government will welcome the initiative which he said will assist in providing thousands of jobs.
As a way of assisting in the area of food security, the Ambassador highlighted the possibility of development of agro processing factories. He also highlighted other means such as farming and finding ways to secure more value added. The Ambassador made a donation of a photocopier to the municipality of the Linden Mayor and Town Council.
