Ambassador Nicole D. Theriot addressed attendees at the International Narcotics and Law Enforcement (INL) signing ceremony on March 18, 2024, in a significant move to strengthen U.S.-Guyana relations under the Caribbean Basin Security Initiative. The event highlighted efforts to tackle shared security challenges and support Guyana's goals for an inclusive and efficient criminal justice system.
"Today, I am honored to join you in deepening the US partnership with Guyana under the Caribbean Basin Security Initiative," stated Ambassador Theriot. This initiative involves collaboration between the U.S. Department of State’s Bureau of International Narcotics and Law Enforcement Affairs (INL) and policymakers in Guyana and across the region.
Theriot emphasized that "INL’s partnership with the Government of Guyana is based on mutual respect, collaboration, and friendship." The ongoing partnership is rooted in commitments to rule of law, democracy, and human rights.
Earlier this year, the U.S. Embassy collaborated with the Guyana Judiciary to launch a digital Court Case Management System aimed at expediting criminal cases and reducing backlogs. Additionally, efforts are underway to achieve international accreditation for the GPF Training Academy through cooperation with the Pan American Development Foundation (PADF).
In her remarks, Theriot announced several new initiatives as part of increased U.S. assistance totaling $300,000: a capacity-building program with the U.S. DEA focused on counternarcotics; deployment of an FBI team to upgrade fingerprint identification systems; and a $350,000 investment under PADF’s “Better Police Readiness Program” supporting strategic management within Guyana's police force.
"This bilateral assistance is complemented by more than $2.5 million in CBSI regional programming designed to promote regionalization," said Theriot.
The strengthened relationship aims to integrate Guyana into regional security frameworks while enhancing its criminal justice system's inclusivity. As Ambassador Theriot concluded her speech: "Together, our partnership will help pave the way for Guyana’s deeper integration into regional security cooperation."