In a joint declaration issued after a trilateral working meeting, Presidents Dr. Mohamed Irfaan Ali of Guyana, Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva of Brazil, and Chandrikapersad Santokhi of Suriname expressed their commitment to strengthen energy cooperation among the three countries. The meeting, held on the sidelines of the 46th Regular Meeting of the Conference of Heads of Government of the Caribbean Community (CARICOM), underscored a shared goal of promoting sustainable development with social justice.
According to the declaration, the Presidents affirmed their commitment to maintaining Latin America and the Caribbean as a Zone of Peace and fostering cooperation for sustainable development. They recognized the historical relations of friendship and good neighborliness binding their nations and highlighted the importance of Amazonian and South American integration.
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To advance their common objectives, the leaders agreed to establish trilateral working groups at the technical level, focusing on physical and digital infrastructure, energy, and cooperation in combating transnational illicit activities. The working groups will delve into initiatives of mutual interest and report progress to the respective Ministers for consideration in trilateral ministerial meetings.
In the energy sector, the Presidents pledged to deepen discussions on cooperation in the oil and gas industry, covering exploration, production, regulation, and emergency response plans. They expressed interest in sustainable hydroelectric projects and the integration of electrical networks to enhance regional energy security. The leaders welcomed the opportunity to explore renewable energy modalities, including bioenergy.
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Regarding infrastructure, the Presidents acknowledged the potential to strengthen physical and digital connectivity. Projects such as the full paving of the Linden-Lethem road connecting Roraima in Brazil to Georgetown and the modernization of road connections passing through French Guiana were emphasized. Trade and investment facilitation measures along these routes were also deemed crucial.
In the fight against transnational crime, the leaders reaffirmed their commitment to joint police operations, intelligence exchange, capacity development activities, and cooperation projects utilizing remote sensing images. They urged security agencies in Brazil, Suriname, and Guyana to intensify cooperation and build upon initiatives in the Guiana Shield region.
The declaration concluded with an emphasis on the successful implementation of the Minamata Convention on Mercury in their respective countries.
