Tremendous scope for Guyana and France to deepen collaboration – PM Phillips 

Prime Minister Brigadier (Ret’d), Mark Phillips underscored the enduring friendship and expanding partnership between Guyana and France on Tuesday evening, while attending the French National Day 2026 celebration hosted by Ambassador of France to Guyana, HE Olivier Plançon and the French Embassy in Georgetown.

Prime Minister Mark Phillips extended congratulations to His Excellency President Emmanuel Macron, the Government and people of the French Republic on behalf of the Government and people of Guyana.

He said that Bastille Day commemorates a defining moment in France’s history and celebrates the enduring principles of liberty, equality and fraternity, which continue to inspire nations in their pursuit of justice, dignity, democracy and peace.

Prime Minister Phillips noted that, as Guyana celebrates its 60th Independence Anniversary, the country remains firmly committed to democracy, the rule of law, respect for human rights, the sovereign equality of states and the peaceful settlement of disputes.

He also expressed Guyana’s appreciation for France’s principled support for the country’s sovereignty and territorial integrity.

“France has consistently demonstrated its commitment to these ideals, and Guyana deeply values France’s principled support for our sovereignty and territorial integrity, and we appreciate its enduring friendship as we continue to safeguard the independence, security and future of our nation.”

The Prime Minister said that the relationship between the two countries is strengthened by shared values and geographic proximity through French Guiana, with significant scope for cooperation in climate resilience, biodiversity protection and sustainable development.

“There is therefore tremendous scope for Guyana and France to deepen our collaboration in building climate-resilient systems, advancing our Sustainable Development Goals, and contributing to the global response to climate change.”

The Prime Minister also noted that bilateral relations between the two countries have been further strengthened by the visit of former French Minister for Europe and Foreign Affairs, His Excellency Stéphane Séjourné, and the establishment of the French Embassy in Guyana.

He said that these developments have created greater momentum for cooperation in defence and security, agriculture and food security, infrastructure, digital transformation, innovation, education, tourism and trade.

“Our friendship reflects a broader conviction that nations, regardless of size, achieve more through cooperation than confrontation and make greater progress through dialogue rather than division.”

Prime Minister Phillips reaffirmed Guyana’s commitment to strengthening bilateral cooperation through the Guyana–France Joint Working Group and to building a partnership that promotes regional stability, shared prosperity and sustainable development.

Prime Minister Phillips was joined by Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, the Hugh Hilton Todd; Senior Minister in the Office of the President with Responsibility for Finance, Dr Ashni Singh; other Ministers of Government; members of the Diplomatic Corps; and members of the French community in Guyana.