PM Phillips commends China’s achievements, underscores deepening bilateral cooperation – INews Guyana

Prime Minister, Brigadier (Ret’d) the Honourable Mark Phillips, joined Chinese Ambassador to Guyana, Her Excellency Yang Yang, at a reception to commemorate the 76th Anniversary of the founding of the People’s Republic of China.

The event, hosted by the Chinese Embassy in Georgetown, was held last night at the Marriott Hotel.

On behalf of the Government and the people of Guyana, Prime Minister Phillips extended congratulations to President Xi Jinping, the Government, and the people of China. He commended the country’s remarkable achievements, noting that the nation has become a global symbol of vision, resilience and transformation.

The Prime Minister reflected on the longstanding Guyana-China relationship that was established in 1972 when Guyana became the first English-speaking Caribbean nation to establish diplomatic relations with China.

“This strategic move was more than just a mere diplomatic gesture; it showed that we all want to live in a world where countries can work harmoniously together across historical and geographical lines.”

He highlighted the tangible results of bilateral cooperation, such as the new Demerara River Bridge and the construction of six regional hospitals by Chinese companies and welcomed the 21st Chinese Medical Team to Guyana, emphasising the significance of ongoing collaboration, particularly in the areas of health research and development.

In relation to education, the Prime Minister highlighted the impact of Chinese scholarships, which he described as investments in the shared future of both countries. He noted that Guyanese students benefit not only from advanced academic training but also from exposure to Chinese culture and innovation.

“These young leaders of tomorrow are bridge-builders of the future, helping our countries to understand each other better and work together.”

Addressing climate change and sustainability, Prime Minister Phillips emphasised the shared vision between Guyana’s Low Carbon Development Strategy 2030 and China’s pledge to achieve carbon neutrality by 2060. He noted that both countries are advancing renewable energy and climate resilience as part of their development strategies.

“Through these innovative initiatives and shared commitments, we can expedite the global transition to a sustainable, low-carbon world that is beneficial to both present and future generations.”

He emphasised Guyana’s support for peaceful coexistence and principles such as mutual respect, non-aggression, non-interference, equality, and cooperation, which underpin partnerships for equitable and sustainable development.

“We believe in the establishment of frameworks of cooperation that emphasise sovereignty, non-interference, and equitable development.”

Looking to the future, Prime Minister Phillips identified housing development, urban planning, and expanded cooperation in healthcare and research as promising areas for collaboration.

“One particularly attractive investment opportunity lies in Guyana’s housing sector. We can significantly benefit from China’s expertise in this sector by leveraging its extensive experience in large-scale, affordable housing construction and urban planning to comprehensively develop our infrastructure.”

Prime Minister Phillips said cooperation between Guyana and China continues to strengthen through trade, diplomacy, and people-to-people connections rooted in a shared commitment to creating a better world.

Prime Minister Phillips was joined by Mrs Mignon Bowen-Phillips, Minister of Parliamentary Affairs and Governance and Acting Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, the Honourable Gail Teixeira, members of the Cabinet, members of the diplomatic corps, and members of the Chinese community in Guyana.

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