Biden says wants to work with Guyana on security concerns
US President Joe Biden yesterday said he looks forward to working with Guyana on addressing security concerns that threaten the “shared interest” of the two countries.
In a message to President Irfaan Ali to mark Guyana’s 51st anniversary as a republic, Biden also expressed the desire for a stronger relationship founded on “shared principles of good governance, prosperity, and security”.
Under the former Trump administration, the US played a pivotal role in ensuring the upholding of democracy here after the March 2nd 2020 general elections. There were frequents statements from State Department officials including then Secretary of State, Mike Pompeo and the US Ambassador here Sarah-Ann Lynch calling for the recognition of the recount vote and upholding of democratic standards.
On July 15 last year, Pompeo announced visa restrictions on unnamed individuals undermining democracy here.
Biden acceded to office on January 20 this year after major controversy over the US elections on November 3rd last year where former President Donald Trump had claimed without evidence that the vote had been rigged.
The message as released by the US Embassy follows:
Dear Mr. President:
It is my pleasure to send congratulations to the people of Guyana as you celebrate 51 years as a republic on February 23.
Guyana is a strong democracy, and I look for- ward to strengthening our bilateral relationship based on shared principles of good governance, prosperity, and security. The challenges of COVID-19 affect all of us and make clear that we must advance our partnership to face the global pandemic, together. In the year ahead, I look forward to our teams addressing the issues and security concerns that threaten our shared interests, while building on Guyana’s economic growth and development.
I wish you and all the people of Guyana a joyous and safe Mashramani. Sincerely,
Joseph R. Biden, Jr.