US SOUTHCOM Commander visits Guyana to bolster security cooperation

U.S. Southern Command (SOUTHCOM) Commander Admiral Alvin Holsey arrived in Guyana on Thursday for a two-day visit aimed at strengthening bilateral defense ties and reaffirming U.S. support for Guyana’s sovereignty and territorial integrity.

During his stay, Admiral Holsey is scheduled to meet with Prime Minister Brigadier (Ret’d) Mark Phillips, who is currently performing the functions of President, as well as Brigadier Omar Khan, Chief of Defense Staff of the Guyana Defence Force (GDF). The high-level discussions are expected to focus on enhancing regional security cooperation, expanding defense partnerships, and advancing joint initiatives to counter emerging threats across the hemisphere.

The visit comes amid deepening defense collaboration between the United States and Guyana, which share a longstanding security relationship encompassing joint military exercises, capacity-building programs, and professional exchanges. The partnership also plays a key role in addressing transnational crime, disaster preparedness, and maritime security.

According to SOUTHCOM, the engagements underscore Washington’s continued commitment to working alongside Guyana and other Caribbean and Latin American partners to promote peace, stability, and resilience in the region.

U.S. Southern Command, headquartered in Miami, collaborates closely with U.S. government agencies and multinational allies to strengthen regional defense capabilities and address shared challenges — from border security and humanitarian crises to climate-related threats — in pursuit of a safer and more prosperous hemisphere.