U.S. boosts security partnership with Guyana

In a significant development for the security landscape of Guyana, United States Ambassador Nicole Theriot on Monday expressed enthusiasm for the deepening security ties between the U.S. and Guyana. 

The announcement came alongside additional funding from Washington aimed at bolstering Guyana’s capabilities in combating crime, fortifying the rule of law, and seamlessly integrating into the Regional Security System (RSS).

Strengthening partnerships under CBSI

Theriot, speaking at the International Narcotics and Law Enforcement (INL) signing ceremony, underscored the importance of the Caribbean Basin Security Initiative (CBSI) in fostering collaboration between the two nations. 

She emphasized that the partnership under CBSI focuses on tailored and strategic capacity-building programs, designed to disrupt organized crime and promote citizen security and institutional reforms in Guyana and across the region.

Mutual commitment to rule of law

Highlighting the foundation of mutual respect and collaboration, Theriot emphasized the shared commitment to upholding the rule of law, democracy, and human rights. 

- Advertisement -

She referenced the recent launch of a cutting-edge digital Court Case Management System in partnership with the Guyana Judiciary and National Centre for State Courts, aimed at expediting criminal cases and improving the justice system’s response to organized crime.

Expanded cooperation initiatives

Building on existing momentum, Theriot announced additional assistance of US$300,000 to further enhance Guyana’s capacity in combating crime and advancing the rule of law. 

This contribution is part of a broader CBSI regional programming worth over US$2.5 million, aimed at promoting regional solutions to shared security challenges.

Targeted capacity building

Acknowledging the threats posed by crime and illicit narcotics trafficking to both nations’ security and stability, Theriot unveiled plans for a capacity-building program with the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) to bolster Guyana’s counternarcotics capabilities. 

Additionally, a technical team from the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) will be deployed to assist in upgrading Guyana’s Integrated Automated Fingerprint Identification System (IAFIS) at major ports.

Empowering law enforcement

Washington’s commitment extends to a US$350,000 investment in Guyana under the “Better Police Readiness Programme,” facilitated by the Pan American Development Foundation (PADF). 

This initiative aims to enhance the Guyana Police Force’s (GPF) strategic planning, forensic capabilities, crisis communications, and engagement with vulnerable populations.

Ministerial Support

Home Affairs Minister Robeson Benn highlighted the regional and global dimensions of the narcotics trafficking challenge, emphasizing the collaborative efforts required to combat the trade’s negative impacts. 

Benn emphasized the importance of stemming the flow of narcotics and preventing associated crime and violence, underscoring the shared responsibility of neighboring countries in the fight against transnational crime.

More Stories

Carib Cement

Carib Cement explores durable concrete roads for Jamaica’s rural areas

Carib Cement Company is evaluating the implementation of its Unicapa Concrete Solution in Jamaica as part of a pilot programme aimed at improving rural...
eGov Technology Showcase

Jamaica advances digital transformation at eGov Technology Showcase

The future of Jamaica’s digital transformation took center stage at yesterday’s eGov Jamaica Limited GOJ Digital Government Technology Showcase at the Jamaica Pegasus. The event,...
imf

IMF highlights St. Lucia’s strong economic performance

The International Monetary Fund (IMF) has commended St. Lucia’s economic recovery, citing strong growth in tourism, construction, and manufacturing. In its 2024 Article IV consultation,...
Jamaican gov’t slashes import bond for new-car dealers

Jamaican gov’t slashes import bond for new-car dealers

In a move aimed at stimulating economic growth and easing financial strain on auto dealers, the Jamaican government has slashed the bond on duties...
Jamaica Finance Minister Fayval Williams

Jamaica’s debt-to-GDP ratio hits lowest level in 30 years

Jamaica is on track to achieve its lowest debt-to-GDP ratio in nearly 30 years, a key milestone in the country’s financial stability and economic...
CARICOM Caribbean general elections

CARICOM welcomes Canada’s $24.1M funding for regional development

The Caribbean Community (CARICOM) has welcomed Canada’s commitment of CAD$24.1 million (US$16.6 million) to support social action, women's empowerment, human rights, and security across...
Sophronia McKenzie

Sophronia McKenzie: Revolutionizing the Caribbean food industry with visuEats

On International Women’s Day, we celebrate the achievements of women who are breaking barriers in their industries—women like Sophronia McKenzie, the Founder and CEO...
Suriname Joins World Bank's International Development Association as Newest Member

World Bank to invest US$320 million to support Haiti

The World Bank Group has approved a new strategic partnership with Haiti, aimed at helping the country recover economically and socially over the next...
World Bank says global economy not growing fast enough to alleviate poverty

Caribbean nations get $131.8M from World Bank for energy project

The World Bank has approved a $131.87 million project aimed at advancing energy efficiency and expanding renewable energy use in Grenada, Guyana, and Saint...
Jamaica BP sector

Private sector dominates Jamaica’s BPO space, driving economic growth

Jamaica’s Business Process Outsourcing (BPO) sector has undergone a remarkable transformation, evolving from a modest operation in the Montego Bay Free Zone to a...

Latest Articles

Skip to content