INFORMATION NOTE || Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, the Honourable Hugh Hilton Todd, today, met the visiting Member of Parliament of the United Kingdom, Mr. David Lammy. Accompanying Mr. Lammy was the Deputy High Commissioner of the United Kingdom to Guyana, Mr. Ray Davidson.
The Foreign Minister took the opportunity to reiterate Guyana’s commitment to the promotion of democracy and the rule of law. In addition, he expressed gratitude to the ABCE community for the support and stance taken on democratic values and norms during the recent electoral impasse in Guyana. Minister Todd also informed of the recent electoral changes to the management at GECOM and noted the significance of such actions as steps towards strengthening democracy.
Minister Todd further highlighted that Guyana is at a critical juncture and emphasized that efforts will be made to ensure there is transparency, accountability, and good governance. He added that the implementation of the right policy framework and initiatives would bolster a conducive business environment to enable competitiveness, innovation, and creativity.
In turn, Mr. Lammy informed that he currently holds the position of Shadow Foreign Secretary in the UK Parliament and expressed interest to remain in contact with the Foreign Ministry in Guyana. The Parliamentarian also highlighted issues such as vaccine nationalism and climate change and the outcome of COP 26 as critical areas of engagement. Minister Todd indicated that the Ministry remains open and available to engage with the Parliamentarian on issues related to Guyana’s Foreign Policy.
Additionally, the Foreign Minister also referred to Guyana’s focus on protecting its sovereignty and territorial integrity and provided an update on the Guyana-Venezuela case that is before the International Court of Justice. Minister Todd expressed his satisfaction with the support received from the international community, as Guyana’s position is consistent with principles of international and customary law.
The officials also discussed the importance of Guyana’s diaspora in the United Kingdom. In concluding, Minister Todd informed that Guyana will soon be appointing Ambassadors at key Missions, including the United Kingdom.
December 17, 2021
