By: Tiana Cole | HGPT Nightly News|
President Dr. Irfaan Ali has reaffirmed Guyana’s unwavering commitment to maintaining Latin America and the Caribbean as a zone of peace, while declaring that Guyana will take a firm stance against transnational crime, the illicit drug trade, and any threats to regional stability.
Delivering the feature address at the Commissioning Parade for Standard Officers’ Course No. 56 at Base Camp Ayanganna on Wednesday, President Ali emphasized Guyana’s dual commitment to peace and security.
“Guyana supports the aspiration of keeping Latin America and the Caribbean as a zone of peace. But equally, we support every action and embrace every partnership to counter transnational crime, the illicit drug trade, and any form of destabilization that threatens the security of Guyana and this region,” the President stated.
As Commander-in-Chief, Dr. Ali lauded the men and women of the Guyana Defence Force (GDF) for their role in safeguarding the nation’s borders and preserving democracy.
“Our men and women in uniform stand ready to safeguard our territorial integrity and sovereignty, ensuring that our land, rivers, forests, and resources—from gold to diamonds—remain secure from those who might seek to exploit or plunder them,” he affirmed.
The President reiterated Guyana’s adherence to international law and the peaceful settlement of disputes, referencing the ongoing border controversy case before the International Court of Justice (ICJ).
“We reject all forms of aggression and any attempt to impose solutions through coercion,” he said.
Dr. Ali further emphasized the government’s commitment to modernizing national defense systems, pledging continued investment in technology-driven security.
“We will protect every inch of Guyana’s territory with vigilance and resolve. We will deploy technology to make our country more secure,” he noted.
In condemning recent attacks on Guyanese citizens and soldiers in the Cuyuni region, President Ali made it clear that Guyana will not bow to intimidation.
“We will not compromise our sovereignty. We condemn the attacks against our citizens and our military using the Cuyuni. We will not tolerate it,” he asserted.
The Head of State closed by urging unity, discipline, and unwavering patriotism among the ranks of the GDF, underscoring that Guyana’s sovereignty and peace will always remain non-negotiable.
