The United States stands firmly with Guyana in support of its territorial integrity and sovereignty, U.S. Ambassador to Guyana Nicole D. Theriot said, as she hailed six decades of diplomatic ties and pledged deeper cooperation in security, trade and energy development.
In an op-ed marking Guyana’s 60th Independence Anniversary, Theriot described the relationship between the two countries as a “time-tested alliance” rooted in democratic values, mutual respect and shared prosperity.
She said the partnership had expanded significantly in recent years, particularly following the 2025 visit to Georgetown by U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio, during which both countries signed a Memorandum of Understanding to strengthen bilateral defence cooperation.
According to Theriot, the agreement paved the way for increased joint training engagements in forensic laboratory procedures, crime scene investigations and maritime domain awareness.
Through initiatives such as the Caribbean Basin Security Initiative and the Shield of the Americas Coalition, Guyana and the United States are also strengthening cooperation to combat narcoterrorism and transnational criminal organisations, discourage illegal migration and support private enterprise.
“The United States stands firmly with Guyana in support of its territorial integrity and sovereignty,” Theriot wrote, adding that Washington remains committed to ensuring Guyana can pursue its future “free from external pressure.”
Theriot also highlighted the longstanding economic relationship between the two nations, noting that the United States remains Guyana’s largest trading partner and continues to play a key role in the country’s rapidly expanding energy sector.
“As Guyana transforms its economy, particularly through its emerging energy sector, the United States remains a committed partner in promoting responsible investment and sustainable development,” she said.
The ambassador pointed to the historic construction of the Soesdyke-Linden Highway with U.S. support nearly six decades ago as an enduring symbol of bilateral cooperation and development.
She also praised the contributions of the Guyanese diaspora in the United States and highlighted collaboration in healthcare, education and youth development through programmes such as PEPFAR, COVID-19 assistance initiatives, Peace Corps volunteerism and academic exchange programmes.
In a 2026 Republic Day message to President Irfaan Ali, U.S. President Donald Trump said the two countries were “united by our shared interest in building a better future for our people.”
Concluding the op-ed, Theriot said the United States remained committed to supporting Guyana’s development, democratic progress and long-term prosperity as the country celebrates 60 years of independence.
