Major coastal highway, inland railway smart options for greater business connectivity – Ambassador Theriot

United States Ambassador to Guyana Nicole Theriot has urged Guyanese authorities to consider options for greater and more efficient connectivity in the country, such as a major coastal highway or inland railway, as the country continues its drive to upgrade existing road networks.

She was speaking in the context of Guyana’s focus on improving its physical infrastructure over the past few years.

Delivering remarks at the opening of the International Business Conference (IBC) at Marriott Hotel in Georgetown last Tuesday, she said: “Focusing on interconnected infrastructure projects is absolutely essential. Goods must reach the market efficiently and people must be able to go where the opportunities exist.”

Better roads, bridges, and ports can bring down the price of goods, especially perishable agricultural products, she pointed out. Improving transport connections with Brazil and Suriname, for instance, could make Guyana even more competitive.

“Such a solution could also bypass Guyana’s urban centers, alleviating what are already incredibly busy areas and expanding the lifespan of residential roads that are currently being degraded by heavy trucks,” she observed.

The ambassador said she encourages U.S. businesses to come invest in Guyana at every opportunity she gets. “While the past GDP numbers are certainly impressive, many people do not recognize that Guyana’s best days are actually yet to come. There are incredible opportunities here for those who are patient, willing to listen, and sincerely want to get to know the country. And I truly hope that more U.S. companies will take advantage of these opportunities.”

Theriot pointed out how U.S. collaboration with Guyana is very robust and how it is the largest source of foreign direct investment into Guyana and its most important trading partner. “Our commercial engagement in Guyana has transformed the business sector,” she boasted, adding, “Ensuring our private sectors are connected and partnering is key to a strong foundation and bilateral economic relations.”