Former President of the United States James Earl Carter, commonly referred to as Jimmy Carter has contacted the Guyanese Head of State David Granger and Leader of the Opposition Bharrat Jagdeo in relation to matters regarding the emerging Oil and Gas (O&G) industry.
This was confirmed by Chief Government Spokesman, Minister of State Joseph Harmon on Friday, July 20, during the Post-Cabinet media briefing at the Ministry of the Presidency.
Minister Harmon revealed that the former US Leader’s call was vital to the Thursday, July 19, meeting of the two political figures, saying “since it’s information is now in the public, yes I can say the matter was raised and His Excellency the President acknowledged that he did receive a telephone call from President Carter…that the President was mindful and interested in in-fact meeting with the Leader of the Opposition to ensure that there are some matters which are in the national interest discussed.”
He divulged that Oil and Gas was a key area of concern, among others. “The President did, in fact, indicate three areas where he would wish to have discussions and elaborated on those. These three matters, of course, involve national security matters, involve matters concerning oil and gas and the matter concerning the environment,” Minister Harmon stated.
He indicated that these areas were discussed by the Guyanese Head of State and Opposition Leader during their Thursday meeting, adding “this, of course, was part of the discussion and the leader of the opposition requested that we have a structured meeting that the President was happy to oblige and did, in fact, put these matters on the table for discussions and later consideration.”
This is a step in the right direction. In the end both parties will benefit.