The US Embassy disclosed today that key discussions were held between the US Army and the Guyana Defense Force (GDF) on the readiness of both sides to respond to any security threat. Such discussions occur at a critical time as Guyanese await the decision of the International Court of Justice (ICJ) on the nation’s application for protective measures against those aspects of Venezuela’s Referendum which aim to annex the Essequibo Region. That ruling is expected on Friday.
In its statement, the embassy said the discussions were led by the United States Army 1st Security Force Assistance Brigade (SFAB) on November 27-28. The embassy said this meeting which forms part of the robust military-to-military partnership between the United States and Guyana, focused on upcoming strategic planning sessions and processes. The US Embassy said, “These initiatives aim to enhance the military readiness and capabilities of both countries, ensuring a more effective response to various security challenges.”
The embassy noted that the SFAB— a specialized unit of the U.S. Army established to advise and assist partner nations—has conducted several joint training exercises with the GDF since 2022 to strengthen their capacity and capability at the tactical and operational levels.
The SFAB Advisors stated, “We are thankful for the opportunity to train with the Guyana Defense Force as our partners and friends. We look forward to deepening the partnership in the weeks and months to come.”
GDF Staff Officer One General Three – Operations and Training – Lieutenant Colonel Andy Pompey said in a brief statement that the last iteration of U.S. military training in Guyana has been of tremendous benefit to the Medical Corps and the 4 Engineers Battalion. “The transfer of knowledge and expertise from our U.S. counterparts under the auspices of the SFAB has equipped our members with invaluable skills that are directly applicable to the dynamic nature of our modern security environment…,” the Lieutenant Colonel said.
He added, “…we are confident that the benefits will be enduring, impacting not only our force’s operational capabilities but also the professional growth of individual members…”
The embassy also noted in its statement that the U.S. and Guyana enjoy a longstanding security partnership marked by “strong collaboration” between SOUTHCOM and the GDF that is focused on countering transnational crime, among other matters.
