…as outgoing Chinese Amb. lauded for enhancing bilateral ties
The already-strong bilateral relations between Guyana and China continues to grow with tangible results in almost every field including trade, which saw a whopping 31 per cent increase in the first half of 2024.
This was revealed by outgoing Chinese Ambassador to Guyana, Guo Haiyan, during a farewell reception held on Wednesday evening at the Pegasus Suites in Georgetown. The Chinese diplomat is wrapping up a three-year tenure in Guyana.
Ambassador Guo highlighted some of the progress in recent years that sought to enhance bilateral relations between the two nations.
“Practical cooperation between China and Guyana has made significant progress. In the first half of this year, our bilateral trade reached US$800 million, reflecting a 31 per cent year-on-year increase,” she stated.
Other milestones that the outgoing Chinese Diplomat outlined includes the successful installation of the first box girder at the new US$260 million Demerara River Bridge that is currently being constructed by Chinese-based China Railway Construction (International); the signing of contractors for both the Guyana Utility-Scale Solar Photovoltaic (PV) Programme and the new Mackenzie-Wismar Bridge Project, and the ongoing US$10 million construction of the China-Guyana Friendship Joe Vieira Park Project.
Additionally, the six Regional Hospital Project is nearing completion, while the Precision Farming Practice in Rice Production Project, funded under the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) – China South-South Cooperation Programme, has concluded successfully.
Reflecting on Guyana’s unprecedented development in recent years, the Chinese Ambassador recalled being told she is not just a witness but a participant in this chapter.
“I feel exceptionally fortunate to have been present during such a transformative era, witnessing incredible development of Guyana and the landmark achievements in China-Guyana relations,” she stated.
Ambassador Guo went onto categorized these ties under three significant letters that summarises the progress of the relations between the two nations in recent years. For 2022, ‘C’ was used to represent the commemoration of the 50th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between Guyana and China coupled with a series of other key events spanning the cultural, infrastructure, aviation, agriculture and health sectors.
The key letter in the following year is ‘P’ – a representation of President Dr Irfaan Ali’s state visit to China and his subsequent address to the 16th China-LAC Business Summitt held later in the year along with a host of exchange programmes between the two nations.
Then In 2024, the letter ‘L’ suggests the leap forward in advancing Guyana-China ties. “People-to-people exchanges have achieved leapfrog development,” Guo added as she recounted the many state and private sector officials who visited China this year.
According to the Chinese diplomat, the strong bonds between Guyana and China will continue to grow. She said, “The China-Guyana relationship is rooted in a profound historical and political foundation, enjoys the high regard of our two Heads of State, and received widespread support from the two peoples. Our Friendship has stood the test of time and will remain unshapen by fleeting events or shifting global dynamics.”
“Both China and Guyana adhere to people-centered development, with economies mutually complementary and opportunity-filled. China is committed to being a reliable partner in Guyana progress. Amid a world of turbulence and change, we stand firm with Guyana to uphold international fairness and justice, address global challenges such as climate change, food security and energy security, and jointly contribute to global peace and development,” the Ambassador added.
Quoting the Guyanese proverb ‘One, one dutty build dam,’ the Chinese Diplomat added, “The road ahead will inevitably be filled with challenges, but I firmly believe that with patience, mutual trust, goodwill, and a shared commitment to progress, we will surmount any obstacles and achieve new triumphs… No matter where I go, Guyana will always hold a special place in my heart, I will remain committed to advancing China-Guyana relations.”
Guo Haiyan was accredited as China’s Ambassador to Guyana in October 2021 by President Ali.
Significant surge in trade
During Wednesday’s farewell reception, Prime Minister, Brigadier (Ret’d) Mark Phillips, lauded the outgoing Chinese diplomat for her unwavering dedication during her tenure that has led to an unprecedented advancement in bilateral relations between the two nations in nearly every aspect of cooperation.
“Under your stewardship, we have experienced a significant surge in trade between our nations. The volume of goods and services exchanged have created new avenues of prosperity and opportunities for both Guyanese and Chinese businesses. This economic synergy has not only bolstered our respective economies but has also paved the way for a more interconnected and resilient future. The Belt and Road Initiative has proven to be a transformative global development strategy, fostering new opportunities for trade, investment, and infrastructure development between our countries,” the PM stated.
Beyond the commercial sphere, Phillips noted that enhanced cooperation was seen in sectors that are crucial for Guyana’s development such as agriculture, whereby Chinese expertise has helped modernize local farming practices, increasing yields and enhancing food security for Guyanese.
While Chinese investments and technical proficiency have contributed to the transformation of Guyana’s infrastructural landscape with new roads, bridges, and buildings, the Prime Minister added that the scholarship opportunities for Guyanese students coupled with the cultural exchange programmes have opened new horizons for local youths.
Similarly in healthcare, he added that China’s support through contributions of medical resources, equipment, and expertise has been invaluable. And with Guyana now a transitioning to renewable energy, PM Phillips stated that China’s increased cooperation in green technology aligns with Guyana’s commitment to sustainable development.
“The transfer of green technologies and knowledge from China is not only helping us build a more environmentally conscious nation but also contribute to a greener, more sustainable future for generations. As you prepare for the next chapter in your distinguished career, please know that the legacy of friendship, cooperation, and mutual respect will continue to strengthen the ties between Guyana and China. The foundations you have helped establish will continue to support the growing partnership between Guyana and China for years to come,” the prime minister stated. (G8)
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