GEORGETOWN, Guyana, CMC – The United States Ambassador to Guyana, Nicole Theriot, says commercial ties between the two countries have become “deeper than ever,” with trade amounting to more than US$6.4 billion last year.
“ Just a few years ago, we traded 100 million U.S. dollars worth of goods, but last year, we surpassed US$4.6 billion. We now have over 100 US companies in Guyana. That number is growing daily, Theriot told a ceremony marking the 248th anniversary of the United States that will be officially celebrated on July 4.
She told the ceremony, which was attended by President Irfaan Ali and senior members of his government, that through trade missions, conferences, and exchanges between the private sectors of both countries, “our companies are unleashing economic growth that supports the employment of thousands, providing a better future for Guyana.
“ And it is occurring in many sectors. Energy, of course, is a key economic driver, but we see activity in healthcare, education, and agriculture. And new U.S. technology is being adopted by Guyanese firms and the government to make them more efficient and competitive.”
The U.S. diplomat said that she loves “sUS-branded hotels being constructed all over Georgetownstructed, along with U.S. restaurants opening new.” locations.”
She said that the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) office here is now conducting multiple programs to promote food security, small business incubation, women’s economic security, and institutional strengthening.
She said that, in support of President Ali’s vision of turning Guyana into the food security hub of the Caribbean, USAID is working to bring products like turmeric, coconut, and West Indian cherries to market both in Guyana and abroad.
Theriot said that the US Peace Corps volunteers are now 38-strong, working nationwide, partnering with schools and government ministries.
“They work alongside communities in the critical areas of literacy, health, and the environment,” she said, adding that the cultural connections are more profound than ever.
“ Alumni of U.S. exchanges such as the Young Leaders of the Americas and our viral International Visitors Leadership Programme use the valuable experience gained in the U.S. to make a difference in communities across Guyana.”
She said the alums foster entrepreneurial innovation among women, train teachers in inclusive education, and inspire youth to become engaged community leaders.
and then 