Chief of Staff of the Guyana Defence Force (GDF), Brigadier Omar Khan yesterday officially opened the 26th Regional Meeting of Military Exchange at the Ramada Hotel, emphasizing the enduring and mutually beneficial friendship between Guyana and Brazil.
A release from the GDF said that in his welcoming remarks, Khan highlighted the shared values of democracy and respect for international law that underpin the strong ties between the two nations.
He emphasized that the meeting goes beyond military cooperation, adding value to regional stability and peace. The release said that he expressed the GDF’s eagerness to participate in these forums.
Leading the visiting delegation from the Brazilian Armed Forces, Commander of the 1st Jungle Infantry, Major General Paulo Santa Barba, voiced his pleasure at being in Guyana for the meeting. He highlighted the significance of sharing concerns, intentions, and capabilities to ensure the continued safety of the region, the release reported. Major General Santa Barba emphasized the interconnected nature of regional security, stating that an issue affecting one country could have repercussions for all. These remarks will be seen at veiled hints to tensions on the Guyana-Venezuela border as a result of a controversial referendum planned by Venezuela for December 3rd.
Commander of the 1st Infantry Battalion , Colonel Michael Shahoud is leading the local delegation. The annual meeting between Guyana and Brazil focuses on various areas, including border security, the operational environment, and any issues arising at the Bon-Fim Lethem border, the releases said.
The 26th Regional Meeting of Military Exchange “underscores the commitment of both nations to collaborative efforts in ensuring regional security, peace, and prosperity”, the release said.
