Gov’t invests in GDF for protection, not war, says President Ali

In a strong statement made during the commissioning of the Guyana Defence Force (GDF) Air Corps’ Hangar at the Eugene F. Correia International Airport in Ogle on Friday, President Dr. Irfaan Ali reaffirmed the government’s commitment to strengthening national defence.

He made it clear that the investments in the GDF are aimed at ensuring the country’s security and protection, rather than preparing for conflict.

“As a strong nation, you must have the means.

“That is why we are investing in our defence force—not for war, not for aggression, but for development and national security,” Dr. Ali said.

He emphasised the importance of a well-equipped and highly capable defence force in safeguarding Guyana’s sovereignty and territorial integrity, especially in light of regional security challenges.

The newly inaugurated hangar, which will house the GDF Air Corps’ fleet of aircraft, marks a significant milestone in the nation’s military infrastructure development. The facility is set to enhance the Air Corps’ operational readiness, enabling it to respond quickly and effectively to any threats to national security.

President Ali also took the opportunity to address the ongoing territorial controversy with Venezuela over the Essequibo region, an issue that has persisted for decades. He reiterated Guyana’s firm stance on the matter, stating that as long as Venezuela continues to take an aggressive approach, there would be no dialogue with President Nicolás Maduro or his government.

“Sovereignty is not a subject for negotiations,” President Ali declared firmly.

The President emphasised that while Guyana is committed to dialogue, it is not prepared to engage in discussions under duress or threats. “We are all for dialogue, but dialogue with respect, dialogue with dignity, and dialogue with a sense of purpose,” he stated.

“We believe in dialogue, but not under the conditions set by Venezuela. We cannot engage in discussions with a nation that continues to violate international laws and agreements.”

Addressing the broader context of national security, President Ali made it clear that Guyana is not oblivious to the realities of the world in which it operates. He stressed the importance of having a strong and capable nation, one that can defend its borders and uphold its interests. This, he pointed out, is why the government is making substantial investments in the GDF.

“We are not blind to the realities of the world we live in. For a nation to be strong, it must have the means to defend itself and identify potential threats,” he said.

The commissioning of the hangar, President Ali explained, was not merely the opening of a new building; it symbolised a significant leap forward in Guyana’s defence capabilities.

“This is not just about new infrastructure; it is a statement,” he said.

“It shows that the GDF is evolving. Our skies will be watched and protected. Our defences will be sharper, our reach will be longer, and our response will be swifter.”

With the new facility, the GDF Air Corps will be better equipped to maintain its aircraft, train its personnel, and patrol the country’s borders with greater efficiency. “The resources we provide will ensure that our pilots and airmen have the tools they need to protect our national borders, respond to any threats, and support national development,” President Ali remarked.

The ceremony was attended by senior government officials, military leaders, and members of the public, all of whom welcomed the new development as a step forward in strengthening the country’s security infrastructure.