The Guyana Defence Force this morning convened the 4th Regional Exchange Meeting between Guyana and France, marking another significant step in the deepening security cooperation between the two nations. The meeting brought together senior military officials from the GDF and the French Armed Forces in French Guiana.
Chief of Defence Staff, Brigadier Omar Khan, MSS, welcomed the visiting delegation and emphasised the importance of the engagement. He noted that the presence of the French team reflects the growing partnership between Guyana and France, particularly as both countries work to address shared security priorities across the Guiana Shield. Brigadier Khan highlighted that collaboration remains essential in confronting challenges that affect the region, including transnational threats and other emerging issues.
During the session, participants reviewed ongoing areas of cooperation and discussed planned activities for 2026. The meeting also provided an opportunity to assess developments unfolding in the broader region and identified avenues for closer collaboration in the months ahead.
French General and Commander of the French Armed Forces in French Guiana, Major General Geraud Laborie reaffirmed France’s commitment to the partnership, noting that Guyana and France are important regional allies who routinely work together to confront issues such as illegal trafficking and other threats impacting the Guiana Shield. He stated that the forum provides valuable momentum for the work to be advanced and expressed his intention to support the development of agreements to enhance information-sharing and expand common areas of cooperation.
Major General Labourie also indicated his anticipation of hosting Brigadier Khan and other regional Chiefs of Defence for the upcoming Regional Defence Chiefs Meeting to be held in French Guiana in early 2026—an engagement he believes will further strengthen the growing cooperation between the two countries.
Today’s exchange reaffirmed the shared commitment of Guyana and France to security, stability, and strengthened defence partnerships across the region, while also setting the stage for continued collaboration in 2026 and beyond.
