-Ambassador says at National Day celebration
By Khadidja Ba
France’s non-resident Ambassador to Guyana, Nicolas de Bouillane de Lacoste yesterday said that plans are progressing for the landmark opening of Paris’ embassy here next year.
Speaking with Stabroek News on the sidelines of the French National Day occasion held at the Umana Yana, he likened French diplomacy to a “big transatlantic boat” that remains steadfast despite changes in leadership. He expressed confidence that recent general elections in France would have no impact on the decision to establish the first of its kind French Embassy in Guyana, a decision reached after extensive deliberations.
“The Embassy should be established within the course of next year,” stated Ambassador de Lacoste, emphasizing the importance of September for new diplomatic rotations.
Addressing the issue of Europe-wide Schengen visas, de Lacoste acknowledged the challenges faced by Guyanese citizens and assured that the opening of the French Embassy would facilitate smoother visa processes. “We understand the concerns raised by the Guyanese government and are working on solutions,” he affirmed.
In addition to diplomatic efforts, the Ambassador highlighted collaborative ventures in various sectors crucial to both nations. During French Minister for Europe and Foreign Affairs Stéphane Séjourné’s visit here in March this year. Discussions included joint working groups focusing on defence, climate change, tourism, infrastructure, agriculture, and food security.
Furthermore, de Lacoste pointed to a significant milestone in defence cooperation: the sale of a naval vessel by French company Ocea to the Guyanese coast guard. This transaction, which occurred in April, marks a pivotal moment in enhancing maritime security capabilities in the region.
Looking ahead, de Lacoste expressed optimism about future collaborations and hoped for reciprocal initiatives from Guyana, including the establishment of a Guyanese embassy in France. Such reciprocal steps, he believes, would strengthen cultural exchange and economic partnerships between the two nations.
In his address to the event yesterday commemorating the storming of the Bastille Prison and the anniversary of the victory over Nazi Germany, de Lacoste highlighted the historical significance of these events and their enduring impact on global alliances. He underscored France’s commitment to strengthening international ties, announcing plans to open two new embassies worldwide, including one in Guyana. “We are proud to work towards making France the first country from the European Union to establish an embassy in Guyana,” he declared, emphasizing the strategic importance of this diplomatic milestone.
Acknowledging the pivotal role of collaboration in economic development, de Lacoste expressed gratitude to the Guyanese government for facilitating partnerships with over 50 French enterprises, some hailing from French Guiana.
These initiatives are set to bolster economic diversification and solidify long-term relationships between businesses in both nations.
Highlighting the critical importance of defence cooperation, de Lacoste referenced the significance of enhancing security on the Guyana Shield, particularly amidst current global uncertainties. “It is imperative that our armed forces strengthen mutual capabilities through exercises and information exchange,” he stressed, reaffirming France’s support for Guyana’s sovereignty and territorial integrity.
Looking ahead, de Lacoste pledged continued support to enhance the capacities of the Guyanese armed forces, ensuring robust defence capabilities for the region. He reiterated France’s commitment to fostering a secure environment through strategic partnerships and cooperative efforts “We support the sovereignty and the territorial integrity of Guyana. We will continue to strengthen the capacities of the Guyanese army.”
