Guyana Ramps Up Essequibo Defence: President Ali's High-Level Engagement with SOUTHCOM

President Dr. Irfaan Ali during a recent visit to the United States Southern Command engaged in discussions that focused on enhancing defence and security cooperation between Guyana and the United States. 

President Dr. Irfaan Ali honours U.S. Navy Admiral Alvin Holsey, Commander of U.S. Southern Command (SOUTHCOM)

The delegation accompanying the President included key figures from Guyana's national security apparatus: National Security Advisor Captain Gerry Gouveia, Chief of Defence Staff Brigadier Omar Khan, Director of the National Intelligence and Security Agency Colonel Sheldon Howell, and Colonel Julius Skeete, Guyana’s Defence Attaché to the US. 

The meeting also featured prominent representatives from the United States, including United States Ambassador to Guyana, Nicole D. Theriot, ADM Alvin Holsey, the Combatant Commander, Lt General Evan Pettus, Military Deputy Commander, Major General Julie Nethercot, Chief of Staff, and Ambassador Sarah-Ann Lynch, who serves as the Civilian Deputy to the Commander and Foreign Policy Advisor.

This meeting underscores the commitment of both nations to strengthen their collaborative efforts in addressing shared security challenges and enhancing regional stability.