Head of State, Président Irfaan Ali and Stéphane Séjourné, Minister of Europe and Foreign Affairs of the French Republic, convened at State House, Georgetown on Monday, March 25, 2024, for bilateral discussions aimed at bolstering cooperation between the two nations.
The discussions centered on various priority issues of international concern, including ensuring the security and stability of the Guiana Shield, combating organized crime in the region, and addressing climate-related challenges, particularly focused on protecting the Amazonia. Recognizing the importance of these issues, both countries expressed a commitment to deepen cooperation in key areas such as defence, climate change, food security, infrastructure, technology, and tourism.
A significant outcome of the meeting was the decision to establish a Joint Working Group to identify priorities for enhancing cooperation between Guyana and France. Additionally, Guyana announced its acquisition of maritime patrol assets from France as part of ongoing security collaboration, underscoring the commitment of both nations to strengthen bilateral relations.
In a historic move, Guyana and France agreed to open a French Embassy in Georgetown in 2025, marking a new chapter in their diplomatic relations. This initiative reflects the shared desire to forge closer ties as neighboring countries and friends. The establishment of the embassy is expected to facilitate cooperation across various sectors, including the economy, leveraging French expertise in priority areas for Guyana.
The opening of the French Embassy in Georgetown is also anticipated to strengthen ties between Guyana and French Guiana, as well as enhance French relations with the Caribbean Community (CARICOM), headquartered in Georgetown. Both governments express enthusiasm for the benefits this diplomatic development will bring, signaling the economic transformation underway in Guyana and France’s commitment to deepening relations in the Caribbean region.
The Government of Guyana looks forward to the establishment of the French Embassy as a testament to the nation’s growth and the growing interest of France in strengthening its ties with the Caribbean. Similarly, the Government of the French Republic welcomes this initiative, viewing it as a step toward enhancing the integration of its overseas territories and consolidating its diplomatic network’s universal character.
