The Government of Guyana and the United Nations have signed a Declaration of Intent aimed at strengthening cooperation on biodiversity conservation, climate resilience and sustainable development, marking a new step in the expansion of the UN-backed Global Biodiversity Alliance.
The agreement was signed on May 18, 2026, by Hon. Gail Teixeira, Minister of Parliamentary Affairs and Governance, and United Nations Resident Coordinator Office representative Jean Kamau during a ceremony hosted at the Office of the President.
The event was held under the auspices of President Mohamed Irfaan Ali, who said the partnership reflects Guyana’s long-standing commitment to protecting its forests, biodiversity and natural resources while advancing sustainable development.
He said the inclusion of the United Nations in the Global Biodiversity Alliance, which is led by Guyana, signals growing international recognition of biodiversity protection as a central pillar of global development policy.
According to remarks shared at the ceremony, the initiative is intended to deepen cooperation between Guyana and UN agencies on integrating biodiversity considerations into national planning and investment frameworks, aligned with the country’s low-carbon development strategy.
Kamau said the United Nations was “pleased to join this important initiative,” adding that it aligns with global Sustainable Development Goals and supports South-South cooperation on environmental protection.
The Declaration also emphasizes the importance of Indigenous Peoples and local communities in conservation efforts, highlighting their role in biodiversity stewardship and knowledge-sharing.
Officials said the partnership is expected to improve coordination and data-sharing on biodiversity action across UN agencies operating in the region, while also supporting implementation of the Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework.
Guyana has increasingly positioned itself as a regional leader in climate and biodiversity diplomacy, promoting what officials describe as a model of development that combines economic growth with environmental protection.
The agreement is expected to strengthen collaboration under the UN Multi-Country Sustainable Development Cooperation Framework and expand technical and policy cooperation in the years ahead.
