Guyana, UK sign MoU to strengthen bilateral defence cooperation

See below full statement from the Guyana Defence Force (GDF):

The Guyana Defence Force (GDF) and the Ministry of Defence of the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to enhance bilateral defence cooperation, marking a significant step in strengthening military ties between the two nations.

The signing followed a high-level engagement led by President Dr. Irfaan Ali, who received the UK’s Minister of State in the Ministry of Defence, the Right Honourable Lord Vernon Coaker, during a courtesy visit at the Office of the President on Friday.

President Ali emphasised the importance of the UK-Guyana partnership, highlighting shared values such as democracy, the Rule of Law, and mutual respect. He welcomed the agreement as a timely and strategic development in the context of regional and global security dynamics.

In brief remarks, Chief of Defence Staff Brigadier Omar Khan, MSS, noted that the MoU outlines several areas for enhanced collaboration, including training, information sharing, cybersecurity, humanitarian exercises, and defence acquisition. He added that with decades of enduring relations between Guyana and the United Kingdom, this agreement further consolidates an already strong and valued defence partnership.

Lord Coaker was accompanied by UK High Commissioner to Guyana, Jane Miller. The meeting also included key government and security officials: Attorney-General and Minister of Legal Affairs Mohabir Anil Nandlall; Senior Minister with responsibility for Finance and Public Service, Dr. Ashni Singh; Minister of Foreign Affairs Hugh Todd; and National Security Adviser Captain Gerry Gouveia.

The MoU represents a renewed commitment to cooperation between the GDF and the UK’s Ministry of Defence, laying the foundation for greater engagement, capacity building, and joint efforts in addressing emerging defence and security challenges.