The United States is positioning Guyana as a key strategic partner in the Caribbean, as US Deputy Secretary of State Chris Landau signals interest in supporting the country’s economic expansion while strengthening cooperation against organised crime and drug trafficking.
Landau, who recently met with President Dr Irfaan Ali in Georgetown, described Guyana as one of the world’s major “up-and-coming countries,” noting that the US wants to be part of its development and prosperity.
He said discussions with Dr Ali centred heavily on Guyana’s infrastructure needs and how its growing energy resources could support broader economic development.
“Guyana is at a stage in development where it needs infrastructure as the foundation for further economic growth,” Landau said.
He identified ports, roads, housing, stores and stadiums among the areas where the two countries could potentially cooperate, arguing that stronger infrastructure would help improve quality of life while supporting economic activity across Guyana.
Landau also pointed to Guyana’s geographic and strategic importance to the United States, describing the country as a key partner in efforts to promote a more secure and prosperous Caribbean.
The visit also produced a Memorandum of Understanding on security and counter-narcotics cooperation.
According to Landau, the agreement reflects shared concerns over the growing threat posed by organised criminal groups and drug trafficking in the region.
“This is a tricky neighbourhood,” he said, stressing that the US and Guyana face common security threats and therefore have a shared interest in preventing criminal networks and drug smugglers from establishing roots in Guyana.
Landau also said the US wants to work with Guyana across a broad range of areas, while highlighting the country’s leadership role within CARICOM.
Additionally, he noted that American businesses were accompanying him during the visit, which signals an interest in greater commercial engagement.
“We hope that we can be part of Guyana’s success story,” Landau said.
