Gov’t aims to strengthen relations with EU

As President Irfaan Ali hints at strengthening relations with the UK following the lifting of the visa, there are hopes of improving relations with the European Union as well.

President Irfaan Ali has been advocating for special visas needed for travel to the Schengen area in Europe to be issued in Guyana.

“We are working very hard with the EU. The first thing is to remove the hurdle of going to Suriname and having to spend one night to apply for the visa, and sometimes you have to return. The cost alone for that. That’s the first hurdle. Then the next hurdle is to have someone who will work with us.”

The Head of State said there are currently efforts underway to gain a bilateral partner within the European Union to aid these efforts.

This is expected to be the first step to deepening relations with the EU. The Head of State also boasted of plans for increased partnership with the UK.

“Fixed rate financing at less than 3%. That is how we’ve been pushing for financing. Difficult to achieve in this market, but still, we are pursuing this. There is also export credits available. We are pursuing these elements. One of the projects from the last trade mission we are still pursuing is that of a new technology to build concrete drains in Guyana at a very fast pace."

President Ali further said they would be looking to collaborate in the energy sector. While further details are to be provided “at the appropriate time”, he announced that some oil blocks are set aside for government-to-government partnerships.

A few blocks are also set aside for auction. No date for this auction has been announced to date.