Guyana’s President meets with King Charles to discuss Low Carbon Development Strategies

President Irfaan Ali met with King Charles in Scotland to discuss Guyana’s Low Carbon Development Strategy (LCDS) 2030. The visit follows the King’s Foundation’s recent engagements in Guyana and the President’s announcement that the Foundation would support the next phase of the LCDS, with a particular focus on sustainable urban development. This announcement was made during the Ali’s speech on the LCDS last week, during which he set out how Georgetown could once more be the Garden City of the Caribbean.

Ali held a one-on-one meeting with His Majesty King Charles III, where they discussed their shared commitment to climate resilience, sustainable development, agriculture, and community-driven initiatives supporting vulnerable populations. Following the meeting, the President said, “We spoke at length about our shared view for the world on the importance of cutting-edge sustainable development solutions. The King has been a long-term supporter of Guyana’s LCDS, which he has highlighted as a global example since it was launched in 2009. I am optimistic that we will work together as partners in the years ahead, especially with the new LCDS priorities—including sustainable urban development, biodiversity, and water management.”

Reflecting on his visit, the President added, “Before I came, I was aware of the admirable work of the King’s Foundation — but seeing it first-hand here in Scotland has been inspiring. I believe that there is a lot we can learn from each other, and that Guyana can be an example for the Commonwealth on our new priorities, just as we have been an example on forests for the past 15 years.”

During his visit, the President toured several facilities that provide critical support to local and vulnerable populations across Scotland, including programs for unemployed youth, students, and individuals facing health challenges. His Excellency’s engagements focused on areas of education, innovation, and sustainability, reflecting Guyana’s commitment to an inclusive and low-carbon future.