Dear Editor,
President Trump visited China to work out a fair-trade deal and to bring some stability and understanding of U.S-China relations especially as regards the Middle East, specifically the war against Iran which is affecting Iran’s supplies of oil to China; the war has upset global relations. The price for all goods and services has been up everywhere while the oil companies are making a killing. Americans are also hurting and President Trump wants to bring the war to an end and restore normalcy to the global economy that has been upended by the war. China, as indeed India and the world want the war to end. Energy shortage is affecting their economies more than America’s. The good news is that the Caribbean and Latin America was not discussed in the Trump-Xi summit. But it is well known that the growing Chinese presence in the Caribbean region has been of increasing concern to Washington especially under the Obama, Biden and Trump administrations. The matter has been raised with governments (including Guyana’s) in the region by American policymakers to tread carefully on ties with China that Washington views as a serious economic competitor and a rising geo-political threat. Guyana must take cognizance of American concerns regarding its friendship with China, which is increasingly being referred to by American commentators as a threatening superpower to American global dominance.
Guyana must protect its gains made from its friendly ties with USA and be tepid in its relations with Beijing so as not to irk Washington. We must ally with USA to protect us and continue the growth the economy that has made significant progress over the last six years. USA has become America’s most capable and dependable military partner and the power behind our economic growth, which has been unprecedented for any nation. America has been a secure and reliable defense umbrella against Venezuelan threats and for protection of our democracy. American investments in Guyana have been the largest in our history. Guyana needs USA for access to critical logistical and advanced technological support for our small nascent industries and to and maintain political and economic stability.
Guyana needs America now more than ever we because we lack the massive military prowess required to deter Venezuela or other neighbors that may have a design on our territory. An alliance or pact or even being an adjunct act as a primary deterrent against aggression. American troops routinely visit Guyana and train with our military and the U.S also supplies resources to combat narco-trafficking. In addition, the U.S is Guyana’s largest and most vital economic partner. A strong alliance ensures a safe, predictable environment for the billions of dollars in investment from Exxon and other companies as well as in bilateral trade and lately the increase in American arrivals from USA into Guyana that pumps more money in the economy.
On economic matters, Guyana relies on partnerships with U.S multinationals to develop our resources. Massive investments by Exxon and the returns to our treasury illustrate its importance our economy. Because of Exxon’s investment, other economic investments have come in from with dozens of American (and non-American) corporations; Exxon’s presence has brought confidence in investing in Guyana. The deepening economic integration cements USA as an indispensable partner to our economic growth, development, territorial integrity, and national security.
Guyana and USA are closer friends than ever before under the watch of Bharrat Jagdeo and Irfaan Ali and must become stronger allies. They must continue this path and ignore idiots who say America is declining and China will surpass USA. Guyana and USA have shared interests. Guyana should have a greater American military presence to combat border threats. And Guyana must collaborate with USA to promote regional security, create economic prosperity for both nations, and address pressing global challenges. It is the way to continue to build a better future for Guyana.