GEORGETOWN, Guyana, CMC – The US Navy cruiser USS Normandy and the Guyana Defence Force patrol vessel Shahoud are engaged in joint military exercises in international waters and Guyana’s Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ).
According to a statement from the US Embassy here, the drills aim to improve communications, interoperability, and the coordination of joint maneuvers.
“This collaboration highlights the close relationship between the United States and Guyana, reinforcing the strength of their military-to-military cooperation.”
It also marks a significant opportunity for both nations to enhance their operational capabilities and foster mutual understanding.
The exercises were underway before US Secretary of State Marco Rubio visited Guyana, scheduled for Thursday.
His visit is expected to reaffirm the United States’ commitment to supporting Guyana’s sovereignty and security, particularly in light of increasing tensions with Venezuela.
The dispute centers on the Essequibo region, a resource-rich area that has been a point of contention between Guyana and Venezuela for many years.
The discovery of significant oil reserves in Guyana’s offshore fields has intensified the territorial dispute, with Venezuela challenging Guyana’s claims.
The geopolitical tensions between the two nations have escalated, especially with Venezuela’s increasing military presence in the region.
During his visit, Rubio is expected to meet with Guyanese officials to discuss ways to bolster security cooperation, focusing on safeguarding the country’s economic interests and energy security.
The United States has already been working closely with Guyana to enhance its security infrastructure, particularly around ExxonMobil’s oil facilities, which have recently become targets of Venezuelan forces.
Discussions during Rubio’s visit are expected to focus on solidifying agreements to protect critical infrastructure and address the broader regional threats posed by Venezuela’s increasingly aggressive actions.
This joint military exercise and the upcoming diplomatic discussions reflect the growing partnership between the US and Guyana in the face of rising regional instability.
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