As the this year’s budget for the Ministry of Foreign Affairs was approved on Tuesday, it was revealed that a total of $60 million has been allocated for the establishment of embassies in the United Arab Emirates and Qatar.
This was announced in the Committee of Supply during the consideration of estimates for the 2021 national budget, which includes the allocation of some $1.045 billion for the ministry’s rental of buildings.
Opposition of Member of Parliament Amanza Walton-Desir specifically asked where the properties are located and the rental sums.
In response, Foreign Affairs Minister Hugh Todd revealed to the Committee that the allocation covers the rental of approximately 80 properties around the world and he said it includes rented properties for staff along with some office spaces. There is also a provision for $30 million for the rental of properties in Dubai, United Arab Emirates, and the same for Doha, Qatar.
Guyana has recently secured diplomatic ties with the two countries. The minister had previously said that the government is set to focus its expansion on diplomatic missions in the Middle East, which possesses potential to aid Guyana in its development as there is private capital which can in turn produce investments in Guyana.
