I am delighted to be here today on behalf of the Embassy’s Bureau of International Narcotics and Law Enforcement Affairs (INL) and the Caribbean Basin Security Initiative, to show the United States’ ongoing commitment to strengthening airport security in Guyana.
It is with great pleasure I announce that the U.S. Government is providing over US$90,000 worth of equipment to assist the Ministry of Public Infrastructure, through the Guyana Civil Aviation Authority and the Cheddi Jagan International Airport, maintain international standards in compliance with the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO).
The equipment provided today (of which you see one of two) will be housed at the Cheddi Jagan International Airport. The two desktop explosives detectors provided by the U.S. Government will enable the authorities to strengthen their technical capabilities and promote the security of all who use and benefit from the services of the airport facilities.
Furthermore, as a sign of our commitment to supporting technical capacity development, the U.S. Government provided training earlier this week: Members of the Guyana Civil Aviation Authority and the Cheddi Jagan International Airport were trained by experts from the United States on the use and maintenance of the equipment. This invaluable opportunity has prepared its users to utilize the equipment in all its potential functions.
Finally, the U.S. Embassy remains committed to continuing to support similar opportunities to improve security; strengthen the capacity of critical personnel; and work hand-in-hand with the Government of Guyana to keep building a strong relationship that mutually benefits our two countries.
Thank you.
