Ramotar wants to work with U.S. on fighting crime

By Leana Bradshaw –

President Donald Ramotar has highlighted his government’s willingness to work in partnership with the United States of America, in an effort to fight crime, terrorism, and trafficking in persons. The president extended the offer to the U.S. government through its ambassador to Guyana, D Brent Hardt, as he joined him, other members of the diplomatic corps, and government officials in celebrating America’s 237th independence anniversary at a ceremony on Tuesday.
Ramotar said as globalisation takes place, his administration is ready to work with the U.S. in combating corruption, which is occurring worldwide.
He, therefore, lauded the Caribbean Basin Security Initiative (CBSI), which he deems important in contributing to national efforts.
“We remain committed to the implementation of the various facets of that programme. I also would like to take this opportunity to acknowledge the valuable partnership of the United States with the Caribbean in advancing another element of our security agenda, which is the region’s comprehensive disaster management strategy,” the president said.
The head of state added that the regular funding provided through the U. S. to the Caribbean Disaster Emergency Management Agency (CDERA), for humanitarian assistance and programmes, has been improved to include assistance for the construction of a training facility and regional coordination centre with a warehouse that would also house the agency’s new headquarters in Barbados.
He added, “We are looking forward to the completion of this project that will be another tangible demonstration of the collaboration between the United States and the countries of the Caribbean in strengthening disaster management in the region.”
As America celebrates its independence, Ramotar said, “The revolutionaries of 1776 continue to inspire people who want freedom”, and their achievements have encouraged Guyana’s own fight against colonialism, as he pointed to late President Dr Cheddi Jagan.
He said in the last 237 years of independence, the people of the USA have built an economy that is the largest in the world, with the most powerful military industry.
He congratulated America on reaching yet another milestone, noting that its independence is one of the most important events in the history of the hemisphere.
“Bilateral relations have evolved since the establishment of diplomatic relations in 1966 (when Guyana achieved her independence) and I’m happy to say we enjoy friendly relations with the United States,” Ramotar said. “We must continue to strengthen this friendship, abiding always with the principles of mutual respect, understanding, and non-interference in each other’s affairs.”
Courage
Addressing the gathering, the U.S. ambassador highlighted Guyana’s similarities and existing relations with the U.S., noting that both Guyana and the U.S. have diverse indigenous populations with long histories and cultural traditions that enrich their nations.
“Looking back since last July 4, relations between the United States and Guyana, and the U.S. and the Caribbean Community have never been closer or more dynamic,” Hardt stated.
He pointed out that in working with the people of the region, much has been accomplished and with continued mutual support, more can be done.
Hardt highlighted too the CBSI project, through which “DEA [Drug Enforcement Agency] trainers conducted a counternarcotics investigators course for Guyana’s anti-narcotics units”.
The U.S. officially celebrates its independence anniversary on July 4; however, it was on July 2, delegates to the Continental Congress in Philadelphia took the fateful step towards independence.
July 4 stands as a symbol to Americans and to many worldwide of the ideals of liberty, freedom, and independence.