The Guyana Defence Force (GDF) intends to increase and deepen its relationship with the Chinese military – the People’s Liberation Army – in a number of critical areas.
Chief of Staff, Commodore Gary Best, made these remarks at the opening of the annual “bilateral military exchange” between the two countries, on Friday, August 26 at the Pegasus Hotel.
Chief of Staff, Commodore Gary Best
“I wish to welcome you officially to this annual bilateral conference between the two militaries, and emphasise the importance that we attach to this bilateral relation, which exists not only between the two countries but the two militaries,” the chief of staff said.
Commodore Best disclosed that this is the second reciprocal visit from the Chinese military; he having visited that country on two previous occasions.
“I’ve had the distinct pleasure of visiting China on previous occasions, and this is the second visit from China. Over the years, our friendship has endured.” Best noted that officers and soldiers who have been trained in China were high in praise for the reception, treatment and knowledge they gained while under Chinese instruction.
He stated that the friendship between the two countries has blossomed over the years, and training and material support have served to improve the efficiency of the local army.
“We subscribe to the “One China Policy” in Guyana, and this allows us to have a clear vision as to how we proceed with military training. And against that backdrop, the GDF will continue to increase and deepen its relations with the People’s Liberation Army,” he stressed. Best expressed delight that within the Caricom region Guyana has the largest contingent trained in China.
“There are officers here today that were trained in China, and I was happy to learn that within the Caribbean, Guyana has the largest number of trained persons in China,” Best remarked.
The GDF chief of staff said he anticipated intense discussions, which should lead to a fruitful outcome and solution.
Though not disclosing the details of the meeting, Best stated that the subject matters on the agenda are not difficult, and both sides should be pleased with the outcome.
Rear Admiral Gao Jingdong said China is pleased to learn that Guyana was appreciative of the material and other forms of support.
He, too, said he was anticipating the results of the conference.
