The Guyana Defence Force today welcomed the Commander of the United States Southern Command (USSOUTHCOM), Admiral Alvin Holsey, on an official visit to Defence Headquarters, Base Camp Ayanganna.
The visit marked a significant milestone in the longstanding partnership between Guyana and the United States, two nations united by shared democratic values, mutual respect for sovereignty, and a joint commitment to maintaining peace, stability, and cooperation in the Southern Hemisphere.
Admiral Holsey met with Chief of Defence Staff, Brigadier Omar Khan, MSS, along with several senior officers, including Colonel General Staff Colonel Kenlloyd Roberts, MSM; Military Attaché to the United States, Colonel Julius Skeete, MSM; Commandant Guyana National Reserve, Colonel Lorraine Foster, MSM; Adjutant General, Colonel Lloyd Souvenir, MEM; Colonel Administration and Quartering, Commander Roger Nurse, MEM, and Force Sergeant Major,Warrant Officer Class One, Christopher Harmon, MEM.
Also present during the engagement were U.S. Ambassador to Guyana, Nicole Theriot; National Security Advisor, Gerry Gouveia, AA; and Director of the National Intelligence and Security Agency (NISA), Colonel Sheldon Howell, MSM.
Discussions focused on deepening defence and security cooperation, strengthening interoperability, and expanding collaboration in joint training, maritime security, cyber defence, intelligence sharing, and humanitarian assistance and disaster response. Opportunities for capacity building through professional military education and technical exchanges were also examined.
Admiral Holsey’s itinerary also included a visit to the GDF Coast Guard Ship Hinds at Ruimveldt, where he was received by Acting President, Brigadier (Ret’d) Mark Phillips. During their engagement, the two discussed the continued importance of strategic defence cooperation between Guyana and the United States. Their exchange reaffirmed the shared commitment to safeguarding regional security, strengthening institutional capacity, and enhancing collaboration in support of peace, stability, and mutual national interests throughout the hemisphere.
The visit underscored the shared vision of both nations to advance defence partnerships rooted in trust, transparency, and respect for international law. It also reinforced the belief that regional peace and stability remain essential to sustainable development and collective security.
The Guyana Defence Force remains committed to advancing defence diplomacy and fostering enduring partnerships with friendly nations, thereby enhancing regional cooperation and improving readiness to address evolving security challenges.
