In a significant development for the security landscape of Guyana, United States Ambassador Nicole Theriot on Monday expressed enthusiasm for the deepening security ties between the U.S. and Guyana.
The announcement came alongside additional funding from Washington aimed at bolstering Guyana’s capabilities in combating crime, fortifying the rule of law, and seamlessly integrating into the Regional Security System (RSS).
Strengthening partnerships under CBSI
Theriot, speaking at the International Narcotics and Law Enforcement (INL) signing ceremony, underscored the importance of the Caribbean Basin Security Initiative (CBSI) in fostering collaboration between the two nations.
She emphasized that the partnership under CBSI focuses on tailored and strategic capacity-building programs, designed to disrupt organized crime and promote citizen security and institutional reforms in Guyana and across the region.
Mutual commitment to rule of law
Highlighting the foundation of mutual respect and collaboration, Theriot emphasized the shared commitment to upholding the rule of law, democracy, and human rights.
She referenced the recent launch of a cutting-edge digital Court Case Management System in partnership with the Guyana Judiciary and National Centre for State Courts, aimed at expediting criminal cases and improving the justice system’s response to organized crime.
Expanded cooperation initiatives
Building on existing momentum, Theriot announced additional assistance of US$300,000 to further enhance Guyana’s capacity in combating crime and advancing the rule of law.
This contribution is part of a broader CBSI regional programming worth over US$2.5 million, aimed at promoting regional solutions to shared security challenges.
Targeted capacity building
Acknowledging the threats posed by crime and illicit narcotics trafficking to both nations’ security and stability, Theriot unveiled plans for a capacity-building program with the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) to bolster Guyana’s counternarcotics capabilities.
Additionally, a technical team from the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) will be deployed to assist in upgrading Guyana’s Integrated Automated Fingerprint Identification System (IAFIS) at major ports.
Empowering law enforcement
Washington’s commitment extends to a US$350,000 investment in Guyana under the “Better Police Readiness Programme,” facilitated by the Pan American Development Foundation (PADF).
This initiative aims to enhance the Guyana Police Force’s (GPF) strategic planning, forensic capabilities, crisis communications, and engagement with vulnerable populations.
Ministerial Support
Home Affairs Minister Robeson Benn highlighted the regional and global dimensions of the narcotics trafficking challenge, emphasizing the collaborative efforts required to combat the trade’s negative impacts.
Benn emphasized the importance of stemming the flow of narcotics and preventing associated crime and violence, underscoring the shared responsibility of neighboring countries in the fight against transnational crime.
