Guyana Chronicle E-Paper 18-11-2023 by Guyana Chronicle

SATURDAY 18th November, 2023

PRICE $100 VAT INCLUSIVE

No. 107268

President Ali to make changes among REOs – Jagdeo

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Proud moment for Guyanese boys named region’s top CSEC, CAPE students - Guyana cops four of seven regional awards

The region’s top CSEC student Alex Muntaz. He is also the region’s most outstanding student in technical/vocational studies

The region’s top CAPE student Naresh Jagnanan

Siddiq Gafar, the region’s most outstanding CSEC student in business

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Naila Rahaman, the region’s most outstanding student in the humanities

Abigail Stephanas, the region’s most outstanding student in the sciences

CARICOM, Saudi Arabia commit ‘The fact-finding mission’ was seemingly uninterested in engaging residents to deepening relations SEE PAGE

- trade, education, energy security among areas of interest

- concerned Lindeners say

More US businesses seeking opportunities in Guyana

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GUYANA CHRONICLE, Saturday, November 18, 2023

Guyana tops region at CSEC, CAPE again CAPE top performer, Naresh Jagnanan

ONCE again, Guyanese students have topped the region in the Caribbean Secondary Education Certificate (CSEC) examination and the Caribbean Advanced Proficiency Examination (CAPE) and have managed to also walk away with four of seven regional awards this year. Minister of Education, Priya Manickchand, delivered the good news on Friday in a video that was posted on the ministry’s Facebook page. This is the fourth consecutive year that the Carib-

CSEC top performer, Alex Muntaz

bean Examination Council (CXC) has recognised the outstanding performance of Guyanese students. “Our students have performed excellently once again at the CSEC level and at the CAPE level which is evidence that our education system is striving and doing well and better as we go along,” Manickchand said. After students all around the Caribbean were assessed, the education minister noted that Guyana tops again as the region’s most outstanding CSEC student is Alex Muntaz of the Anna Regina Secondary School.

Muntaz following the release of preliminary results in August, was announced as Guyana’s top CSEC performer having written 27 subjects and obtaining 23 grade ones and four grade twos. This is the second consecutive year that the country’s top student is from the Region Two school. Muntaz also copped the prize for the Most Outstanding Technical/ Vocational Education student for the Caribbean region. The minister also announced that for the entire region, ISA Islamic

Guyana’s second most outstanding CSEC student, Virendra Dookie of Saraswati Vidya Niketan

student, Siddiq Gafar was the most outstanding in business, while Naila Rahaman of Queen’s College is the most outstanding student in humanities. Rahaman’s schoolmate, Abigail Stephanas if the most outstanding student in the sciences. Virendra Dookie of Saraswati Vidya Niketan located in Region Three, is Guyana’s second most outstanding CSEC student. Meanwhile, for CAPE, Naresh Jagnanan, Guyana’s top CAPE student who is originally from the Esse-

Guyana’s second most outstanding CAPE student, Joshua Gulab of Queen’s College

quibo Islands Secondary School, topped the region. After excelling at CSEC, the Wakenaam resident opted to relocate to Georgetown to pursue CAPE studies at Queen’s College. The nine grade ones and one grade two he secured at this year’s CAPE examinations was enough to put him at the top of the list. Minister also announced that Joshua Gulab of Queen’s College is Guyana’s second most outstanding CAPE student. “I want you to remember, we’ve always topped with CSEC but we strug-

gled a little bit with copping the top awards at CAPE,” she said while adding that Guyana has been making strides in improving performance at both exams. In August, the Education Ministry announced that Guyana has recorded significant performances in several subject areas for both CAPE and CSEC examinations. At the time it was noted that some 12,819 students sat both exams in the country with 701 of those completing CAPE and 12,118 completing CSEC.

CARICOM, Saudi Arabia commit to deepening relations

- trade, education, energy security among areas of interest Joint statement, Saudi Arabia-CARICOM Summit, Riyadh, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia: AT the kind invitation of the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques, King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud, King of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, the Leadership of Saudi Arabia and the Leaders of the Caribbean Community (CARICOM) met in Riyadh on 16 November 2023 for the inaugural Saudi Arabia-CARICOM Summit. The Summit was cochaired by His Royal Highness Prince Mohammed bin Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud, Crown Prince and Prime Minister of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia; His Excellency Roosevelt Skerrit, Prime Minister of Dominica, with the participation of Heads of State and/or Government of CARICOM and the CARICOM Secretary-General.

Reaffirming their mutual interests and friendly relations, the leaders exchanged views on issues of common interest, and discussed ways to further expand and advance their partnership to take advantage of the growth opportunities that can be utilised through cooperation between their two dynamic regions based on a shared vision and the values embodied in the United Nations (UN) Charter. The leaders hereby declare to: 1. Join efforts to promote peace, security, stability and prosperity, through mutual respect and cooperation between countries and regions, to achieve sustainable development and progress and maintain the rules-based international order based on adherence to international law and the UN Charter. 2. Undertake consul-

tations and explore cooperation on specific areas of common interest between both sides, namely education (scholarships), health, maritime cooperation, connectivity, logistics, food security, energy security, tourism economic and other possible areas of cooperation, where appropriate, including the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). 3. Strengthen ties between the two sides, at the multilateral and bilateral levels, and in global fora by pursuing opportunities for sustainable development, peace, security and stability, tourism infrastructure development, as well as creating business opportunities in the ICT/Global Digital Services sector and boosting trade and investment flows by creating mutually beneficial opportunities for joint investments, with special emphasis on sustainable infrastructure, renewables, trade, tourism,

logistics, and connectivity. 4. P r o m o t e t r a d e and investment relations between Saudi Arabia and CARICOM, by enhancing public-private partnership and business-to-business relations between both regions, using available and new physical and online platforms, trade missions, exhibitions, seminars, conferences, and dialogue. 5. Support Saudi Arabia’s bid to host Expo 2030 in Riyadh, highlighting the importance of organizing regional and international exhibitions to reenergize economic and cultural exchanges between the Saudi Arabia and CARICOM, mindful that individual CARICOM Member States have pledged their support for Saudi Arabia’s candidature to host Expo 2030. 6. Cooperate in the development of sustainable and circular agriculture and in the promotion of sus-

tainable food production, sustainable use and management of water resources and promote trade and investment opportunities in food and agri-based industries and encourage the exchange of information, sharing of experiences, research, modern technologies and best practices, as well as through conducting capacity building activities. 7. Promote dialogue among the peoples and cultures of both sides to enhance trust, and advance mutual understanding and greater respect for diversity, thus contributing to a culture of peace. 8. Build on the two regions’ cultural diversity, openness and rich history to stress that tolerance and peaceful coexistence are among the most important values and principles for friendly relations between nations and cultures. 9. Promote the cultural and creative industries of CARICOM and Saudi Arabia

through cultural festivals, art exhibitions, film festivals, workshops, book fairs and other events. Furthermore, encourage the exchange of best practices and capacity building in the areas of museology, protection, conservation and restoration of cultural and historical heritage. 10. Promote cooperation in the area of tourism, including heritage, cruise, sustainable and ecotourism, medical and wellness, tourism, by undertaking benchmarking activities, joint tourism investments, and strengthening capacity-building. 11. Stress the importance and urgency of promoting joint action towards mitigating climate change and adapting to its impacts, protecting the environment and developing low carbon and clean energy technologies. 12. Reaffirm the importance of working togethTURN TO PAGE 5

GUYANA CHRONICLE, Saturday, November 18, 2023

Digicel unwraps ‘D’Bess Christmas’ promotions - $50M up for grabs

DIGICEL, a leading telecommunications provider, has ushered in the holiday season with the launch of its highly-anticipated Christmas promotions, aptly named “D’Bess Christmas”. This festive campaign not only promises customers incredible savings, but also offers a thrilling opportunity to win millions through the Spin to Win Game Shows. As part of the D'Bess

Christmas festivities, customers can take advantage of a substantial 50 per cent discount on selected Samsung handsets, making this the perfect time to upgrade their devices. But the holiday cheer doesn't stop there, as, with every handset purchase, customers will also receive a generous 50GB of data, ensuring they stay connected and share the joy of the season with friends and family.

But the pièce de résistance of the promotion is the extraordinary Spin to Win game, whereby customers activating a data plan will automatically enter a draw for a chance to win big. T h e S p i n t o Wi n game features, not one but three thrilling shows, offering 14 lucky customers the opportunity to spin the wheel and potentially win as much as $3.6 million. This adds up to a staggering $50 million in cash prizes. Deonarine Gopaul, CEO at Digicel, expressed the company's commitment to giving back to its valued customers in a meaningful way. "With the launch of our Christmas promo-

Deonarine Gopaul, CEO at Digicel, expressed the company’s commitment to giving back to its valued customers in a meaningful way at the recent event held for the media at Tribe Gastronomic Lounge

tions, 'D'Bess Christmas,' we aim to say 'thank you' for choosing Digicel. I am particularly excited about the Spin to Win promotion, where the joy of giving takes center

stage. The prospect of 14 lucky customers winning as much as 3.6 million dollars is not just a promotion; it's a celebration of the spirit of the season, and I hope it brings as much joy to you as it does to us." The Digicel team encourages everyone to take advantage of these incredible offers and join

in the festive spirit. The D'Bess Christmas promotions are available from now until January 4th, 2024, providing customers with the opportunity to save big and potentially win even bigger. Don't miss out on unwrapping the magic of the season with Digicel's D'Bess Christmas celebrations!

GUYANA CHRONICLE, Saturday, November 18, 2023

Proud moment for Guyanese boys named region’s top CSEC, CAPE students - both set sights on higher education

By Indrawattie Natram WHEN they heard the news that they had outshone thousands of students across the region, and were named the most outstanding students for this year’s Caribbean Secondary Education Certificate (CSEC) examinations and the Caribbean Advanced Proficiency Examination (CAPE), Alex Muntaz and Naresh Jagnanan were overjoyed. Minister of Education Priya Manickchand made the announcement on Friday after receiving the results of the regional awards from the Caribbean Examination Council (CXC). The Guyana Chronicle spoke to both scholars about this latest achievement and their future plans. Muntaz said he is now focused on furthering his studies in bio-medical engineering. The Cotton Field resident, who copped 24 Grade Ones and three Grade Twos will be heading to the United States next year to pursue his dreams, and continue his academic journey. In addition to being the region’s top student, CXC also named him as the most outstanding student in technical/vocational studies. Throughout his school life, Muntaz has always

been a high-flyer. In 2018, he was the top NGSA student for Region Two (Pomeroon-Supenaam), and he continued to excel at the Anna Regina Secondary School where he completed his secondary education. Having received confirmation that he has topped the Caribbean, Muntaz said that he was very excited and pleased with this result. He told this publication that some of his grades were reviewed, and his results had improved. He was initially awarded 23 Grade Ones and four Grade Twos. Leading up to the examinations, he had received support from both of his parents and his teachers. He said that his success was as a result of sleepless nights and his commitment. Muntaz comes from a business family. His mother, Neelawattie Muntaz, owns her own boutique, “Baby Doll”, which is located at Cotton Field, while his father, Reyaz Muntaz, operates a trucking service. The proud parents related that their son has always performed well, hence they were not surprised at his most recent academic success. They said that they admired their son’s determination to excel. “We knew that he would do well, but we are super

proud that he made the entire country proud, and he will be moving on to his career path in the United States of America. He will be going on a government scholarship, and again he will make Guyana proud,” Neelawattie said. In addition to residents, friends and teachers, the lad also received congratulations from Region Two Chairperson Vilma De Silva, who said that he has put the region on the map once again, and she is very proud of him. De Silva extended congratulations on behalf of the Regional Democratic Council (RDC), and wished him well in the future. UWI JOURNEY Meanwhile, Jagnanan, the region’s top CAPE performer is currently pursuing a double major in Economics and International Relations at the University of the West Indies’ St. Agustine Campus in Trinidad. After graduating from Queen’s College, the Wakenaam boy opted to take up his UWI scholarship. He, too, has enjoyed a successful academic journey thus far. In 2021, the then Essequibo Islands Secondary School student was named the top business student by CXC after he wrote the CSEC examinations. He has secured 11 Grade Ones. From there he

Naresh Jagnanan proudly representing Guyana at UWI’s St. Augustine Campus, Trinidad (Photo courtesy of the Guyana Student Association, Trinidad and Tobago) moved on to Queen’s College to pursue an Associate Degree in Accounting at the CAPE level, a move he knew would make him eligible for a CXC/ UWI scholarship. Jagnanan on Friday took time out from his studies to speak with this publication. He said that he was very elated to hear the news. “When I started CAPE, it was my intention to get the overall top award and the business award as well, which is something that I prayed for. But, over time, I realised that I needed to be realistic, because doing that many units may compromise my ability to get

CARICOM, Saudi Arabia commit...

FROM PAGE 3

er to confront the global challenges related to climate change, committing to all efforts to address this urgent issue by setting and achieving ambitious goals to reduce emissions, adopting renewable energy production, and clean technologies including for abatement and removal, promoting equitable promoting equitable access to climate financing for Small Island Developing States (SIDS) to support mitigation and adaptation measures, and finding in-

novative technical solutions that will accelerate the transition to low-emission economies, and continuing to explore sustainable and inclusive pathways to implement the goals of the Paris Agreement. 13. Welcome Saudi Arabia’s Middle East Green Initiative (MGI), and its announcement to establish and host a dedicated MGI Secretariat and allocate US $2.5 billion to support MGI projects and governance. 14. Support the announcement by Saudi Arabia about the establishment of an international water or-

ganization based in Riyadh, calling for further decisive global action. 15. Stress the important role that CARICOM and the Saudi Arabia can play in hosting major sporting events; the Summit endorsed the candidacy of Saudi Arabia to host the 2034 FIFA World Cup. And Welcoming that the Caribbean will host the ICC T20 World Cup in 2024 and Saudi Arabia to host the 2034 FIFA World Cup. 16. Recognize the important initiatives arrived at by Saudi Arabia and CARICOM in their respec-

tive regions, and decided to hold the Second Saudi Arabia-CARICOM Summit in 2026. 17. C A R I C O M Leaders expressed their appreciation to the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques, King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud, King of Saudi Arabia, and His Royal Highness Prince Mohammed bin Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud Crown Prince and Prime Minister of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, and to the Government and People of Saudi Arabia for their hospitality.

Alex Muntaz and his proud parents the business award. Nevertheless, I still worked hard to achieve what I did today,” he added. He said when he received the news, he felt very ecstatic. “But aside for that happiness, is a feeling of gratitude to God and everyone who assisted me along the way. After finishing CAPE and copping the CXC/UWI scholarship, I started UWI on August 27,” he said. Given his latest achievement, Jagnanan said he will receive a presidential scholarship, the highest form of scholarship that a student can receive. With this scholarship, he can study anywhere

in the world, he added. When asked how his studies at UWI are going, he said it was a challenge to acclimatise to the new environment, but he is very glad that he overcame that challenge and is now settled. “My courses haven't been that challenging as yet, perhaps because it's my first semester, but I am expecting things to pick up as time passes,” he said. He used the opportunity to encourage those that have to sit upcoming examinations to stay focused, and to ensure that they continue to read and take extra lessons.

GUYANA CHRONICLE, Saturday, November 18, 2023

Territorial integrity must prevail I N re c e n t t i m e s , t h e longstanding territorial controversy between Venezuela and Guyana has escalated, bringing to light Venezuela's unjust claims over the Essequibo region. It is crucial to set the record straight and emphasise the historical, legal, and diplomatic foundations that safeguard Guyana's territorial integrity. Guyana, a nation of humble size and population, has found itself at the centre of a controversy fuelled by Venezuela's desire to lay claim to the Essequibo, a region rich in resources, including valuable offshore oil and gas deposits. This territorial ambition

has been exacerbated by the economic challenges faced by Venezuela, prompting the Maduro government to seek control over Guyana's land and maritime wealth. The roots of this conflict extend back over a century when the boundaries between British Guiana and Venezuela were settled through the Treaty of Washington in 1897. The subsequent International Tribunal of Arbitration's Award in 1899 delineated the borders, a decision that was deemed fair and satisfactory by both parties, as well as the international community. For six decades, successive Venezuelan administrations respected and

honoured these borders. However, in 1962, when Guyana pursued independence, Venezuela suddenly challenged the legitimacy of the Arbitral Award, casting doubt on the fairness of the process. This shift in stance was prompted by geopolitical considerations and a fear of a Communist-led government under Dr. Cheddi Jagan, Guyana’s Prime Minister at the time. Notably, the United States played a role behind closed doors in discouraging Guyana's independence under a Communist government. Despite this, the boundaries settled by the 1899 Award were demarcated, recognised internationally, and reaffirmed

by Venezuela, Brazil, and British Guiana in 1931. The 1966 Geneva Agreement, signed on the eve of Guyana's independence, was intended to guarantee the maintenance of borders. However, Venezuela's unwarranted claims persisted, leading to a protracted series of discussions, a moratorium, and decades of UN good offices, all of which failed to find a resolution. In 2014, following the Agreement's provisions, Guyana sought the intervention of the United Nations Secretary-General, leading to the International Court of Justice (ICJ) being chosen as the means to settle the controversy. Guyana

filed its application to the ICJ in 2018, seeking a fair and just resolution. The ICJ, having ruled that it can adjudicate on the merits of Guyana's case, now stands as the arbiter of this controversy. Despite Venezuela's objection, the court's judgment will be binding on both parties, reaffirming the sanctity of international law and the rule of treaties. However, in a troubling turn of events, President Maduro has announced a controversial referendum proposing the annexation of Essequibo by force, a move condemned by the international community, including the Caribbean Community (CARICOM)

and the Organisation of American States (OAS). Guyana appeals to the international community to uphold justice and protect its sovereignty against Venezuela's aggressive territorial claims. As Sir Shridath Ramphal aptly puts it, Venezuela's claim is rooted in “greed, nurtured by falsity and fable, and maintained by political demagoguery.” Guyana's plea for justice and adherence to international law must prevail, and the majority of nations that have condemned Venezuela's actions stand as a testament to the importance of upholding the principles of fairness and justice on the global stage.

President Ali’s strategy on border controversy is spot on

Dear Editor,

WHEN it comes to the 124-year-old border controversy between Guyana and Venezuela, President Dr. Irfaan Ali is leaving no stones unturned as he deals with the erratic behaviour of the Maduro regime in the most serious manner. On several occasions, His Excellency has made it clear to all and sundry in the world that Guyana has always been and will always be a peaceful nation that respects the rule of law, but Venezuela’s claim to the Essequibo region poses a direct threat to Guyana’s sovereignty and territorial integrity as well threatening the economic stability, tranquility, and peaceful existence of the Caribbean, which unlike Venezuela has never encroached on the territory of any other nation. The border controversy between Guyana and Venezuela which dates back to the 1899 Arbitral Award, has shown how successive

governments have tried but failed to settle this age-old controversy, but President Ali is determined and committed to settle it once and for all. Not only has he elevated the border controversy to the World Court which is highest legal body capable of settle controversies peacefully between and among countries, but he has also apprised the members of the international community, chief among them is the United States as well as regional organisations including the European Union, Commonwealth of Nations, the Organisation of African Unity (OAU) and our neighbours at CARICOM and at the Organisation of American States (OAS). He told the world that Venezuela’s recent deployment of troops on its border with Guyana and its latest threats to use force to unilaterally annex the Essequibo region are designed to undermine and disregard the rule of law and the impending case at the International Court of

Justice (ICJ). President Ali has always taken the threats from the Maduro Regime very seriously and so is the government and opposition lawmakers who during a November 6 debate on the border controversy, unanimously approved a motion regarding Venezuela in the National Assembly. The lawmakers have noted that in addition to the deployment of thousands of troops by the Maduro regime on the Venezuelan side of the border, it has placed several postings on social media declaring that Essequibo belongs to Venezuela, which is false. They also reaffirmed Guyana’s commitment to the ICJ and have ruled out any bilateral talks between President Ali and President Maduro to settle the controversy. As a pragmatist, His Excellency realised that in terms of military prowess, Guyana is no match to Venezuela whose National Bolivarian Armed Forces comprised of the Army, Navy, and Air

Force, is the 4th largest military in Latin America, behind Brazil, Colombia and Mexico and is more than half the size of Guyana’s population. Therefore, while Venezuela broods over military threats, it is inconceivable for Guyana to think that there is a military solution to settle the border controversy. However, after a very careful assessment of the escalation of tension propagated by Caracas and the misleading rhetoric disseminated by President Maduro to buttress his claim over Essequibo, President Dr. Ali has sought and received solid support and meaningful partnerships with members of the international community and regional allies to condemn the reckless behaviour of Venezuela. Despite the saber-rattling from Venezuela, President Dr. Irfaan Ali’s eyes were firm on the prize to thwart Maduro plans because he knew he had options which he saved for the last. To strengthen and expand relations with Brazil,

given its historic position on the inviolability of borders. President Ali held discussions with the President of Brazil, Luis Inacio ‘Lula’ Da Silva on a wide range of bilateral issues, including defence, military co-operation, respect for sovereignty and territorial integrity, and the rule of international law, the Venezuela border controversy, infrastructure, and economic co-operation, among others. The talks between President Ali and his Brazilian counter-part were held amid repeated threats by Venezuela to use force to annex the Essequibo region which was of concern to Brazil. The Brazilian President has always been concerned about violence in the region and has called for a diplomatic and or legal settlement to the border controversy. If anyone had any misgivings about President Ali’s strategy on the border controversy or his resolve to settle it peacefully through the ICJ, they should be cast aside.

To the surprise of almost everyone, the Venezuelan Ambassador to Guyana Carlos Amador Pérez Silva declared on November 12, 2023, that Venezuela would not invade Guyana even if its citizens vote ‘yes’ in the referendum on December 3, 2023, to annex the Essequibo region. The Venezuelan envoy explained that the deployment of troops to Venezuela’s border with Guyana is part of an operation codenamed “Operation Roraima” to tackle illegal gold mining, drug trafficking, trafficking in persons, gangs and other “internal security” matters. Despite Ambassador Silva proclamation, President Dr. Ali will not claim victory or budge from his position that Venezuela’s claim to Essequibo is false, groundless, and illegal. He will continue to push for a peaceful and legal settlement at the ICJ. Sincerely, Dr. Asquith Rose

OP-ED: The “Belt and Road” Initiative injects new impetus into China-Guyana cooperation

GUYANA CHRONICLE, Saturday, November 18, 2023

By H.E. Guo Haiyan, Chinese Ambassador to Guyana

THE 3rd “Belt and Road” Initiative (BRI) Forum for International Cooperation was convened in October this year in Beijing, marking the 10th anniversary of the BRI. Over the past decade, the BRI, which focuses on enhancing connectivity, and adheres to the principle of “planning together, building together, and benefitting together”, transcends differences between civilizations, cultures, social systems, and stages of development, to enhance policy, infrastructure, trade, financial and people to people connectivity. It has gotten off the ground, grown rapidly and produced fruitful outcomes with our joint efforts. The achievements of the BRI in the past decade are truly remarkable, which fully demonstrate that peace and cooperation, openness and inclusiveness, mutual learning and mutual benefit are the right path forward. Look into the future, China will work with all parties involved to deepen Belt and Road partnerships of cooperation, usher this cooperation into a new stage of high-quality development, and make relentless efforts to achieve global modernisation. In this respect, Chinese President Xi Jinping announced Eight Major Steps China will take to support our joint pursuit of high-quality Belt and Road cooperation. The Eight Major Steps define new directions, open up new visions, and inject new momentum to deepen the Belt and Road cooperation. The Eight Major Steps insist on the philosophy of open, green and clean cooperation, pursue the goal of high-standard, people-centred and sustainable cooperation, and follow the model of “government guidance, enterprise dominant and market-driven”. The Eight Major Steps have rich connotations, of which I guess the Guyanese friends may pay more attention to the following contents:

Chinese Ambassador to Guyana, Guo Haiyan 1.Building a multidi- and technological innovamensional Belt and Road tion. China will increase connectivity network. Chi- the number of joint labna will vigorously inte- oratories built with other grate ports, shipping and parties, and support young trading services under the scientists from other coun“Silk Road Maritime”, tries to work on shortand accelerate the building term programs in China. of the New International For the first time, China Land-Sea Trade Corridor will put forward the Globand the Air Silk Road. al Initiative for Artificial 2.Supporting an open Intelligence(AI) Goverworld economy. China nance. China stands ready will enter into free trade to increase exchanges and agreements and investment dialogue with other counprotection treaties with tries and jointly promote more countries, and hold the sound, orderly and the Global Digital Trade secure AI development in the world. Expo annually. 6.Supporting people to 3.Carrying out practical cooperation to sup- people exchanges. China port high-quality Belt and will enhance the exchange Road construction. China and cooperation between will promote both signa- theaters, arts festival, ture projects and “small museums, art museums yet smart” livelihood and libraries from partner programs. The China De- countries. velopment Bank and the 7.Promoting integriExport-Import Bank of ty-based Belt and Road China will set up new fi- cooperation. China will nancing windows, and the establish the Integrity Silk Road Fund will get and Compliance Evaluaadditional injection. China tion System for Compawill also enhance vocation- nies Involved in Belt and al education cooperation Road Cooperation, and through Luban Workshops work with international and other initiatives. organizations to carry out 4 . P r o m o t i n g g r e e n research and training on development. China will promoting integrity in Belt establish dialogue and ex- and Road cooperation. change mechanisms for the 8.Strengthening instisolar industry and a net- tutional building for interwork of experts on green national Belt and Road coand low-carbon develop- operation. China will work ment, and implement the with BRI partner countries Green Investment Princi- to strengthen the building ples for the Belt and Road, of multilateral cooperation which will provide more platforms covering energy, training opportunities for taxation, finance, green other countries. development, disaster re5.Advancing scientific duction, anti-corruption,

think tank, media, culture and other fields. Nowadays, against the backdrop of rising protectionism in global trade and weak global economic recovery, we need to jointly promote higher level of openness and cooperation to accelerate the modernization of all countries. We strongly believe that the Eight Major Steps will inject new impetus into our cooperation and achieve common prosperity. Since China and Guyana signed MoU on the BRI in 2018, progress has been made in the cooperation. Infrastructure projects including the East Coast Demerara Road, the expansion of Cheddi Jagan International Airport, and the National Broadband Network etc., have promoted the connectivity of Guyana. The China-Guyana trade volume has increased from 265 million USD in 2018 to 1.88 billion USD in 2022, expanded by 6.1 times in 4 years. It’s worth noting that for the first time, Guyana enjoyed a trade surplus of 820 mil-

lion USD against China in 2022, which is expected to continuously increase. Over the past 5 years, more than 400 Guyanese have completed their training programs under the framework of economic and technical cooperation with China, covering vast fields of governance, manufacture, agriculture, fisheries and others. And more than 50 young Guyanese students have won Chinese Government scholarships. The Chinese medical team assisted Guyana to establish several medical centres, which have improved medical staff training. There is huge potential for China-Guyana cooperation, given that China's economy has strong resilience and endogenous impetus, and Guyana is fastest growing economy in the world. China is willing to coordinate with Guyana, to implement the joint statement issued during the visit of President Mohamed Irfaan Ali to China, and to improve cooperation mechanism and platform in

various fields, to promote high-quality development of our cooperation. In the future, detailed implementing measures of the Eight Major Steps will be gradually released. Following the guidance, China is willing to continue to provide Guyana financial and technical support to enhance connectivity; carry out projects of livelihood assistance, vocational education and scholarships, to improve capacity building and health care; get aboard the express train of technological innovation, to accelerate digitized and innovative development; import more agriculture, forestry, animal husbandry and fishery products from Guyana; encourage more Chinese tourists to appreciate the charm of “the land of many waters”; deepen cooperation in areas of environment and climate change to collaboratively achieve green development.

Is Henry Jeffrey the only ministerial achiever?

HENRY JEFFREY in an exchange in the newspapers with Professor Randolph Persaud, cited his “achievements” when he was a minister in the PPP Government. I counted the words enumerating his achievements and they amount to over 300. If I was to reproduce those “magical” moments of Jeffrey, it would have amounted to half the space of this column. Jeffrey cites huge success as the minister in four portfolios – Housing, Health, Education and Labour. Jeffrey had a fifth portfolio – Foreign Trade. Commonsense kicks in here. If Jeffrey could state that, as a minister, he had a solid record of accomplishments, then

GUYANA CHRONICLE, Saturday, November 18, 2023

other ministers had to have the same record. If you reject that Jeffrey’s ministerial colleagues were not “phenomenal” as he was, then, there can only be one conclusion – Jeffrey alone had a magical capacity to perform. Since that argument cannot hold, then two questions Jeffrey has to answer. Does he agree that in those years when he was performing, his Cabinet colleagues were also doing great in their respective portfolios? Secondly, are there similar performances like those Jeffrey excelled in right now among Cabinet ministers? If Jeffrey answers no to both questions then obviously, Jeffrey was the most incred-

ibly positive minister the PPP had since it took office in 1992. Knowing Jeffrey, I am quite prepared to say that Jeffrey is barefaced enough to answer both questions in the negative. If and when he does, a charge of narcissism can be levelled against him. Surely a minister cannot state publicly that he was a huge success in five Cabinet portfolios and in those times, other Ministers were failures and since August 2020 there have been no other coruscating accomplishments that could match the time Jeffrey served as minister. So how does the opinion-maker approach Jeffrey’s declaration? Whatever interpretation you put

on it, he has boxed himself into a corner. You cannot declare you were a positive and an achieving minister in a government and since you left, no other Cabinet minister has chalked up impressive accolades So, let’s ask two pertinent questionsare there ministers that have done outstanding work in the present PPP government that have resulted in phenomenal benefits to the nation? Secondly – are these stellar performances in the same category that Jeffrey adumbrated when he was minister? We will never get a response from Jeffrey to these two enquiries because that is how they treat their constituencies. They never engage their critics as an obligation to their constituencies because they are afraid of exposures that will damage them for life. Please see my colu m n o n J e ff r e y o f Saturday, October 14, 2023, titled, “Henry Jeffrey and the perception of PNC voters.” In that article I described the lay-out of Jeffrey in which he contended that every

Region, except Region 8, had huge percentage of election fraud by the PPP in the March 2020 election. Jeffrey stated that the percentage in each of these regions ranged between 40 to 80 per cent. It is not only an act of obligation to your readers but basic decency should compel you to explain how an opposition party could have achieved these miraculous, phenomenal feats. What strategies and stratagems they employed? To say an opposition party took complete (yes, complete, because he said the tampering was between 40 to 80 per cent) control of the election machinery on voting day and gave themselves power, has to arouse tantalizing curiosity in each human that read that pronouncement as to how this saturation was done. Jeffrey will go on to write his anti-government frenzy but will feel no sense of duty to readers and citizens to explain his outpouring. This non-recognition of obligation is characteristic of all of them like Jeffrey. Look and listen to

David Hinds who rant emotionally all the time about his birthplace – Buxton. But he never accounts to the people of Buxton why his government rescinded the amendment to the marijuana legislation. The last time I was in Buxton with my wife, I saw three young men bracing against a car openly smoking marijuana. Take Clive Thomas. He threw away over 50 years of respect the people of the Caribbean region had for him. He took his party, the WPA, into a coalition with the PNC and AFC. They lost the 2020 poll, yet, since then in his weekly Stabroek News column and fortnight appearance on David Hinds’ platform, he avoids any mention of his time in government. Obviously, he feels no sense of obligation to the people who read and listen to him. The positive outcome of all of this is that African Guyanese have left the people like Jeffrey, Hinds and Thomas and the entire opposition behind. Dee Hawkins Haigler needs to know this.

GUYANA CHRONICLE, Saturday, November 18, 2023

Cop killed by speeding vehicle tied the knot two weeks ago WOMAN Constable 25953 Annette Abel, who was killed on Thursday night after a speeding driver allegedly ignored the stop light and slammed into her and her colleague, had gotten married only two weeks. Her tragic death has attracted expressions of shock across all social media platforms. Makeup artist Lolita Callendar, called ‘Lola Doll,’ shared before and after images of the 53-year-old cop on her wedding day on her Facebook page. “My deepest condolences to ur entire family. I could not believe when I heard this news I just did ur face two weeks ago for your wedding…not even get to enjoy her married life. I hope they lock ur killerrr up an throw way the key. RIP TO MY CLIENT ILL NEVER FORGET U,” Callendar said in a post. Meanwhile, police on Friday identified the driver as a 44-year-old resident of Front Road, East Ruimveldt According to the police, Abel of Lot 64 Perth

Village, Mahaicony, East Coast Demerara, who was attached to the Beterverwagting (BV) Police Station's Traffic Department, lost her life while she and her colleagues were manning a roadblock outside the BV Police Station. “Constable Abel was struck down after the driver of a speeding vehicle (Jeep) jumped the traffic lights, lost control of his vehicle and ploughed into her and another colleague at the roadblock at around 22:00 hours last night (Thursday).” “The tragic accident involved motor Jeep PVV 8278 driven by a 44-year-old man from Front Road, East Ruimveldt, Georgetown, and occupants - a 46-year-old female of 'A' Field South Sophia; a 75-year-old male from East Ruimveldt, Georgetown; motor car PNN 8124 driven by a 24-year-old of North Better Hope, East Coast Demerara; motor car PAB 9932 driven by a 30-yearold of Buxton, East Coast Demerara; and pedestrians - Woman Constable 25953 Annette Abel; and Woman Inspector Shenay Castello,

the Inspector in-Charge at Beterverwagting Police Station.” “Investigation disclosed that there was a roadblock on the southern carriageway on the public road in front of the Beterverwagting Police Station. The roadblock was commanded by Woman Inspector Castello, assisted by Corporal 21289 Keshan Collins, Lance Corporal 21463 Jenella Jonas, Woman Constable 25925 Annette Abel, Constable 25124 Brian Tappin and Constable 24718 Wayne Daniels.” “Whilst on duty, Woman Constable Abel stopped motor cars PAB 9932 and PNN 8124, which were proceeding West on the southern driving lane of the southern carriageway. Both of the vehicles pulled left and were stationary when the motor Jeep, which was proceeding in the same direction and lane at a fast rate of speed, approached the traffic light signal situated at the junction of Republic Drive, Beterverwagting and the East Coast Highway. At the time, the traffic signal was in working

order and showing red in his direction but the driver drove through the redlight signal and collided with the traffic cones, which were at the centre of the road as part of the roadblock operation. The driver lost control of his vehicle and struck Woman Constable Abel into motor car PAB 9932 which then collided with motor car PNN 8124. The latter vehicle (PNN 8124) then spun and collided with Woman Inspector Castello and one of the drivers, Chris Allen, who were all flung into the air. Woman Constable Abel landed about 20 feet away on the road surface with her left foot severed below the knee. Woman Inspector Critchlow and Chris Allen landed on the southern grass parapet,” a statement

Constable Annette Abel getting ready for her wedding (Lola Doll photo)

from the police said. Additionally, the motor Jeep turned turtle on the southern grass parapet. The EMT was summoned and Woman Constable Abel was pronounced dead at the scene. The occupants of the Jeep all received injuries and were escorted to

Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation along with the Woman Inspector. Up to press time there was no update on her condition. Abel’s body is at the Memorial Gardens Funeral Home, awaiting a post-mortem examination.

GUYANA CHRONICLE, Saturday, November 18, 2023

More US businesses seeking opportunities in Guyana

Foreign Secretary, Robert Persaud and Speaker of the National Assembly, Manzoor Nadir (centre) and members of the US delegation (DPI photo) A DELEGATION from the Bilateral Chambers of Commerce, headquartered in Houston and the Louisiana District Export Council recently met with Foreign Secretary Robert Persaud. Persaud welcomed the trade mission to Guyana and informed the delegation that Guyana is open for business. He stated that the government has been advocating for Guyana’s private sector and the Bilateral Chamber

of Commerce to develop partnerships. The Foreign Secretary also said that U.S. companies have been encouraged to form business relationships with their Guyanese counterparts to boost their capacity. He reiterated the government’s satisfaction with the establishment of a U.S. Department of Commerce office in the U.S. Embassy in Georgetown. Mr Marc Herbert of

the U.S. Trade Delegation, thanked Foreign Secretary Persaud for the meeting and informed him that the U.S. companies are serious about exploring more business opportunities in Guyana. Ms Mariyam Cementwala, the Political and Economic Section Chief of the United States Embassy accompanied the delegation, which is slated to meet with officials in the public and private sectors (DPI)

GUYANA CHRONICLE, Saturday, November 18, 2023

President Ali to make changes among REOs – Jagdeo

GENERAL Secretary of the People’s Progressive Party (PPP), Dr. Bharrat Jagdeo, has announced that President Dr. Irfaan Ali is planning to make some changes among the Regional Executive Officers (REOs). “I know he has ideas on the REOs... there are impending changes,” Dr. Jagdeo stated during a press conference at Freedom House on Thursday. However, it was not stated when these changes will be made or whether some of the officers in charge of regional affairs will be formally replaced. Just last month, following a visit to Mara, Region Six (East Berbice- Corentyne), President Ali blasted regional

officials for the slothful pace in works. He met with citizens of the community and provided an open platform for them to voice their concerns. While some lauded the facelift that Mara is undergoing, several residents informed Dr. Ali that they were not satisfied with the progress of road works and drainage and irrigation in the area. Drawing attention to the $100 million expended to improve roadways in the area, the President expressed complete dissatisfaction with the rate at which works were being carried out. In 2021, the Head of State committed to investing $100 million to construct six kilometres of asphaltic road in Mara. Noting that

resources are being expended to ensure that citizens have a better quality of life, the President stated that it was disappointing to hear that engineers were dragging their feet on the job. While scolding the regional engineer, President Ali firmly asserted: “I told [all of you] that we will hold people accountable in this place.” Furthermore, with the engineer claiming that he visited the community, the President demanded a report, which he (the engineer) could not present. “…You’re the engineer and you went to visit the area and you don’t even have a report of the visit?” Dr. Ali questioned. The President also scolded other regional officials

President Dr. Irfaan Ali for their failure to act on the [works]… “I’m going to change issues. “Let me be very clear to the system; what we will do you, I’m very disappointed [is], when we go back, we’re with [the pace] of the road going to get some of the re-

gional contractors to come in for a meeting and see a new approach to get it done because I am dissatisfied with the engineer…there is absolutely no excuse for the speed at which they’re doing the road,” the President asserted. Meanwhile, following a concern expressed by an elderly man on pension payments not being done in Mara, but instead in New Amsterdam, the President grew furious as to how officials are not following standard procedures. “Let me tell you something, somebody should be fired because we have a policy: the pension must be paid in villages,” he said.

Jagdeo sues ‘Bryan Max’ for $5M over ‘aggressive’ Facebook Live V I C E - P R E S I D E N T, Dr. Bharrat Jadgeo, has filed a $5 million lawsuit against social media personality Bryan ‘Max’ Mackintosh for defamation. Jagdeo, who is also the General Secretary of the People’s Progressive Party Civic (PPP/C), through his attorneys Sanjeev Datadin and Khalif Cobin, recently filed the lawsuit at the Demerara High Court. According to the statement of claim seen by this newspaper, Mackintosh during a live audio/video broadcast on November 9, 2023, on his Facebook page using the 'Facebook Live' feature, delivered a video characterised as “aggressive” and “menac-

Bryan ‘Max’ Mackintosh ing” toward Jagdeo. In the video, Mackintosh, employing a series of expletives, alleged that Jagdeo orchestrated individuals to harm him. The document states, “The words in their natu-

tosh, his servants, agents, or employees from further speaking or publishing similar defamatory state-

Vice-President, Dr Bharrat Jagdeo ral and ordinary meaning meant and were understood to mean that the claimant was directly involved in the apparent sabotage of the defendant's vehicle, to wit, the cutting of his brakes line with the objective of causing the death of the defendant. “The clear words accuse the claimant and/ or the claimant's agents of cutting the defendant's brakes line on his motor car with the view of precipitating the death of the defendant.” Jagdeo's legal representatives contend that these words, and any reasonable inferences, are entirely false and lack any foundation in reality, whether real or imaginary.

The initial Facebook publication by the defendant has been followed by repeated similar words and sentiments on various occasions on Mackintosh's Facebook page. The document describes these repetitions as "fanciful, illogical, overly dramatised, nonsensical, and non-sequitur narrations which repeat and reinforce, using similar words." In the lawsuit, Jagdeo asserts that the slanderous words aimed at him by Mackintosh were intentionally calculated to disparage him, embarrass, humiliate, and damage his reputation and standing as a public official. Jagdeo is asking the court to grant an injunction to restrain Mackin-

ments. Additionally, he is requesting a court order for Mackintosh to

remove the defamatory video and issue an apology.

GUYANA CHRONICLE, Saturday, November 18, 2023

GPF to target recklessness on roadways during Christmas season - more street lights, traffic cameras, patrols among plans

By Trina Williams TRAFFIC Chief, Senior Superintendent Mahendra Singh, has reiterated the commitment of the Guyana Police Force (GPF) to ensuring that there is safety on the roadways. He made this announcement while presenting the traffic department’s policing plans for the upcoming Christmas season. The event was held at the Police Officers Mess at Eve Leary on Wednesday. “Our intention [is to] ensure the unhindered flow of all forms of traffic within all regional police divisions, to minimise traffic congestion in and around the critical areas of activities, to conduct continuous awareness programmes [which are] aimed at ensuring all plans, routes of travel, and safety information meets the target audience,” he said. According to a risk assessment, there is likely to be an increase in accidents across the country and an increase in alcohol consumption by road users, among other issues. Also, when comparing the 2023 traffic accidents and deaths statistics to those

of 2022, there was an overall 9 per cent decrease. However, there was an increase in the number of fatal accidents and deaths. With the number of fatal accidents in 2023 increasing by 59 per cent and deaths climbing to 71 per cent, the traffic chief stressed that there will be stricter monitoring on the roadways. In the categories of serious, minor and damage accidents, the decline was 19, 17 and 7 per cent, respectively. While explaining the methods that will be implemented, Singh said each region will be divided into sectors and staffed by traffic ranks. There will be an increase in fixed point placement along the main thoroughfares and motorcycle and motor vehicle patrols will be done, among several other initiatives. Additionally, there will be installation of lights along key roads and traffic cameras to safeguard road users. Earlier this year, President, Dr. Irfaan Ali, said that he had instructed the GPF to launch a massive road safety campaign throughout the country, given the increase in deaths caused by road

accidents. “I have already told the police that we have to do a number of things; one, launch a massive road safety campaign across the country where you have more visuals, markings…,” he said. Dr. Ali was adamant that drinking and driving, and speeding have to be addressed, but the response needs to be seen as a collective responsibility. The increase in road accidents is of great national concern, he had said, adding: “And if you look, frankly speaking, a lot of the accidents have to do with excessive speeding and drinking and driving.” President Ali added that he requested statistics on how many accidents occur in the early morning hours because such must be among the things ranks have to look at in order to develop and implement adequate safety measures. In July 2023, to aid in reducing road fatalities, a Road Safety Awareness Campaign, “Respect the Road,” was launched by the GPF in collaboration with the Government of Guyana and Impressions.

GUYANA CHRONICLE, Saturday, November 18, 2023

GuyExpo 2023: Transforming Guyana through investment and innovation

By Faith Greene

THE much-anticipated GuyExpo 2023 has returned with a bang, showcasing the theme 'Transforming Guyana

enticing deals that can only be accessed at the expo. One highlight of this year's event is the presence of the Guyana Bank for Trade and Industry (GBTI), which is extend-

Luminous Automotive Motors CEO and Manager, Eron Baptiste (left) and Mario (Delano Williams photo)

Through Investments, Innovation, and Resilience.' Held at the Sophia Exhibition Centre from November 16 to November 19, this year's event marks the resurgence of Guyana's leading trade fair and exhibition after a seven-year hiatus. With approximately 250 exhibitors adorning the Sophia Exhibition Centre, GuyExpo 2023 promises a diverse array of eye-catching products and services. Visitors can explore the extensive offerings from government agencies and various businesses, with

ing a warm invitation to both existing and potential customers. GBTI is offering onthe-spot pre-approvals for their Christmas promotion, featuring quick cash loans and opportunities to sign up for credit cards, all available throughout the remaining days of the exhibition. Nadia De Abrue, present at GBTI's booth, explained that interested individuals can bring two recent pay slips for on-thespot pre-proofing. Luminous Automotive and Motors, represented by CEO Eron Baptiste,

is showcasing brand new headlamps, fog lamps, LEDs and more, primarily designed for Toyota vehicles. The company is offering a financing plan for motorcycles during Guy-

urally delicious and ethically sourced herbs and spices transformed into teas, seasonings, dietary supplements, and facial products. Their products, highly acclaimed and

Products by Essence of Nature at its booth

Expo, featuring a down payment of $100,000 and monthly installments of $35,000 for a six-month period. To check eligibility, individuals can visit Luminous on Facebook and Instagram (@LuminousAutomotiveandMotors). For tea enthusiasts, Essence of Herbs is a must-visit booth at GuyExpo. CEO Princess Cosbert is introducing her new creation, 'tea in a pot,' a unique experience for those who may be familiar with 'coffee in a pot.' Essence of Herbs, which began in 2015, offers nat-

available across Guyana and select international cities, can be reached through WhatsApp at +592 644 9491 or their website, na-

tureswowgy.com. Luke's Manufacturing is another standout at GuyExpo, featuring 'Wine and Dine, Coffee Wine,' crafted from coffee beans. Alongside this innovative

Luke’s Manufacturing CEO, John Luke, with his wine product (Delano Williams photo)

product, Luke's Manufacturing offers a va-

riety of other wines. For more information on their wine flavors, interested individuals can check their Facebook and TikTok (@ LukesManufacturing) or contact them via WhatsApp at +592 677 6315. These businesses, among numerous others, are adding vibrancy to GuyExpo 2023. Stay updated with the latest happenings at the event by visiting GuyExpo, the Ministry of Tourism, Industry and Commerce, and the Guyana Tourism Authority on their respective Facebook pages. Guyana is indeed transforming through investments, innovation, and resilience, and GuyExpo 2023 is at the forefront of this exciting journey.

The GBTI Team at GuyExpo 2023 (Delano Williams photo)

GUYANA CHRONICLE, Saturday, November 18, 2023

Scenes from Day Two of GuyExpo Scores of persons turned up at the National Exhibition Centre, Sophia, to view the hundreds of productions and services that are being showcased at this year’s GuyExpo. The trade fair, which is being held after a seven-year hiatus, ends tomorrow. There are also fun activities for the children, and lots of culinary delights available at the Food Court (Japeth Savory photos)

GUYANA CHRONICLE, Saturday, November 18, 2023

‘The fact-finding mission’ was seemingly uninterested in engaging residents - concerned Lindeners say

CONCERNED Lindeners have expressed much disappointment with the manner in which the group of American politicians, led by Dee Dawkins-Haigler, conducted their town hall meeting in Region 10. Rubbishing the claims of discrimination, the group of residents said they felt shunned when they tried to speak at the meeting. These remarks were made during a live broadcast on the National Communications Network (NCN) on Friday. Alleging that the meeting showed an evident bias, the residents shut down the claims of favouritism and Linden being left on the backburner of development by the People’s Progressive Party (PPP) Government. “Town Hall meeting is about the people,” Lennox Gasper, the Municipality’s Town Clerk stated as he explained how neglected they felt during the event. Pointing out the cloud of secrecy that surrounds the group of American politicians, he went on to say: “This fact-finding delegation is biased; they do not represent transparency. They do not represent what the US is about, which is the people and allowing the people to have a voice.” Another resident blatantly rejected the claims of discrimination and non-development. With the proof being in the pudding, the man said that all of President Dr. Irfaan Ali’s initiatives cater for all Guyanese, regardless of one’s political affiliation. “The President makes sure he addresses the needs of each and every

Guyanese,” the Lindener said. He then went on to say that it was clear as daylight that the meeting was not aimed at executing what the delegation said they wanted to do. “Everyone who had a genuine concern was stopped from talking,” the Lindener said, adding: “The fact-finding mission did not seem interested in actually engaging with residents, and that’s very sad for us today in Linden.” Sancha Halley dispelled claims that the Charles Roza School of Nursing in Linden had been closed. She then went on to expound on how the healthcare sector in Linden is facing rapid development, and all residents are given equal opportunities to become integrated into the framework. In August, it was announced by Minister of Health Dr. Frank Anthony that almost 1,200 persons are currently being trained in the ongoing hybrid registered nursing programme. He said that since introducing the programme, some 1,162 persons are currently undergoing the theoretical part of the training. The hybrid programme, which will see persons undergoing theoretical training Online, and practical aspects at simulation centres across the country, was launched in June. And, just last month, the Linden Hospital Complex received a US$130,000 state-of-theart Digital X-ray System. “Development is coming to every corner, every crack [and] every valley, because that is

what we’re about. We’re about transforming things for every single category of Guyanese people,” President Ali affirmed. He said that the PPP Government is making significant strides to increase the number of nurses receiving training to 3,000 from the existing total of over 1,500. “…We’re building infrastructure to ensure that we have the capacity to at least train 3,000 nurses simultaneously all across Guyana,” President Ali said, adding: “That is why we’re making this big investment. There is a bigger link; it is not only talking about our needs anymore. “We are building institutions and structures far beyond [what] we require in Guyana.” The Head-of-State has also expounded on other plans to diversify the nation’s economy, and noted that the investments in human resource skills are targetting all healthcare professionals; not only nurses. He also pointed out the hundreds of healthcare workers benefitting under the Guyana Online Academy of Learning (GOAL) scholarship programme, which is allowing Guyanese to pursue their studies at various reputable institutions. Notably, a host of infrastructural development has been rolled out by the Health Ministry to target the health sector this year, including the establishment of several new hospitals and major upgrades to existing facilities. Some $38.7 billion has been expended in this sector, for the first half of the year.

GUYANA CHRONICLE, Saturday, November 18, 2023

Pedestrian crushed to death by reversing truck

Truck wheel that ran over Arnold De Santos resulting in his death (GPF photo)

POLICE are investigating a fatal accident which occurred at around 18:15 hours, on Thursday, at Farm Track (access road), Madewini, East Bank Demerara. The dead man has been identified as 63-year-old Arnold De Santos of 22 Farm Track, Madewini. Enquiries disclosed that the lorry (# GAD-7213 driven by a 27-year-old from Farm Track, Madewini) was reversing south along the eastern side of Farm Track access road at a fast rate and collided with the male pedestrian, who was walking on the eastern side of the road.”

“As a result of the collision, the rear rightside wheel of the lorry 'rolled over' the pedestrian, who received injuries to his head and on the body. He was then picked up in an unconscious condition and escorted to the Diamond Diagnostic Centre where he was seen and examined by a doctor on duty and pronounced dead on arrival,” police disclosed in a press release. The body was escorted to the Memorial Funeral Home to await a post-mortem examination. The lorry driver was arrested and is in custody, assisting with the investigation.

Future of Guyana’s healthcare – Dr Singh tells new batch ‘rests in your hands’ of medical doctors

GUYANA CHRONICLE, Saturday, November 18, 2023

IN a keynote address to Guyana’s newest cohort of 34 medical doctors, Senior Minister in the Office of the President with responsibility for Finance, Dr Ashni

“You are entering the medical profession at a time when we are investing more heavily than we have ever invested in our medical facilities [and] any other time

lic and private healthcare system in Guyana, 10, 15, or 20 years from now, literally rests in your hands. And that is a very serious responsibility,” Dr Singh said.

Some of the medical doctors and their families at the white coat ceremony Thursday evening (DPI photos) Singh, has urged young doctors to make use of the tremendous opportunities ahead.

in our country’s history…I want to say to you that the question of whether or not we have a world-class pub-

Minister Singh was at the time addressing the graduation ceremony of the University of Guyana’s School

of Medicine, on Thursday evening, at the Marriott Hotel, Kingston, Georgetown, where the scholars received their white coats and recited the Hippocratic Oath. He stressed that the government was investing continuously to transform the sector to provide the necessary health infrastructure and innovative technology to meet the needs of the population. The senior minister told the new batch of medical practitioners they have the advantage of entering the profession with much better facilities compared to what previous generations endured. “You are entering this at a time when you’re going to be working in far better facilities with better equipment, in an environment that will be dramatically more conducive to practise…” he stressed.

Senior Minister within the Office of the President with responsibility for Finance, Dr Ashni Singh Further, the minister noted as the doctors embark on the most crucial phase of their professional journey, they will encounter situations that may be beyond their expectations. To this end, he encouraged them to approach every situation professionally and remember their commitment

to serve. Dr Singh congratulated the graduates for attaining the remarkable milestone, noting that the achievement is cause for celebration as it represents the culmination of several years of hard work and considerable effort. (DPI)

GUYANA CHRONICLE, Saturday, November 18, 2023

England beat Malta 2-0

( B B C ) A L R E A D Y- Q U A L I F I E D England gained an unconvincing victory over Malta at Wembley to boost their hopes of being seeded for Euro 2024 next summer. Phil Foden's pull-back was diverted into his own net by Malta defender Enrico Pepe after only eight minutes, but Gareth Southgate's side failed to register a single shot on target in the opening hour against a nation ranked 171st in the world. However, England did produce a bit of quality in the 75th minute to seal victory through Harry Kane. It came after a fine one and two-touch passing move involving Kyle Walker, Foden and Bukayo Saka, who set up skipper Kane for his 62nd international goal. Declan Rice thought he had added a third, excellently curling low into the bottom corner, but the goal was ruled out following a check by the Video Assistant Referee (VAR) as Kane, standing in the

England went ahead after only eight minutes at Wembley Stadium goalkeeper's line of sight, was adjudged offside. Chelsea forward, Cole Palmer, made his debut in the second half at a packed national stadium. England had qualified for next summer's Euro 2024 in Germany with two games to spare, but only five of the 10 group winners, along with the hosts, will be seeded when the draw is made next month. Southgate's side play their final qualifier on Mon-

day in North Macedonia and a win should be enough to secure a top seeding. England tribute to Sir Bobby Charlton It was an emotional evening at Wembley as the fans, players and coaching staff paid tribute to Sir Bobby Charlton, who died at age 86 on October 21. He scored 49 goals in 106 international matches, helping England win the 1966 World Cup. Before the match against

Malta, amid darkness in the stadium, a video showed some of his best career moments, with all the England players wearing black armbands. The words 'Sir Bobby' were spelt out by the fans during a minute's applause, which saw Wembley again in darkness apart from a spotlight on the players standing around the centre circle.

SOUTH AFRICA RACING TIPS DURBANVILLE 08:25 hrs Gimmethatpearl 09:00 hrs Ponte Pietra 09:35 hrs My Flower Fate 10:10 hrs Pondiro’s.jet 10:45 hrs Callmegetrix

08:44 hrs Jungle Jack 09:19 hrs Rafferty’s Return 09:54 hrs Ubetya 10:29 hrs Favour And Fortune 11:04 hrs It’s Good To Laugh 11:39 hrs East Street

ENGLISH RACING TIPS CHELTENHAM 08:35 hrs Milan Time 09:20 hrs Tea Clipper 09:45 hrs Mister Coffey 10:20 hrs Unexpected Party 10:55 hrs Buddy One 11:30 hrs Gyenyame 12:00 hrs Baby Kate

WOLVERHAMPTON 12:30 hrs Angel Of Peace 13:00 hrs Voltaic 13:30 hrs Incremental 14:00 hrs Ninety Nine 14:30 hrs Berrygate 15:00 hrs Diamondsinthesky 15:30 hrs Catesby 16:00 hrs The Thames Boatman 16:30 hrs Percy Willis

NAVAN 08:20 hrs Ask Anything 08:55 hrs Theonewedreamof 09:30 hrs Dee Capo 10:05 hrs Zanahtyr 10:40 hrs Dysart Dynamo 11:15 hrs Facile Vega 11:45 hrs Apple’s Of Bresil

WETHERBY 08:00 hrs Helteham

IRISH RACING TIPS

AMERICAN RACING TIPS AQUEDUCT Race 1 Big Prankster Race 2 Engineer Empire Race 3 Mi Tres Por Ciento Race 4 Works For Me Race 5 Integration Race 6 So High Race 7 Cara’s Time Race 8 Pistfive Carry Race 9 Our Shot Race10 Leadership Ability

GUYANA CHRONICLE, Saturday, November 18, 2023

Matthews player-of-the-match effort helps Renegades past Brisbane

CMC – WEST INDIES captain, Hayley Matthews, produced a player-of-the-match effort as her beleaguered Melbourne Renegades halted a worrying eight-game losing streak with a narrow two-run victory over Brisbane Heat. The 25-year-old, whose form has mirrored that of her side, top-scored with a season-best 46 to help propel Renegades to a competitive 169 for seven off their 20 overs at Allan Border field here Friday.

She then grabbed a wicket with her off-spin, snared two catches and sent down a brilliant final over as Heat just came up short at 167 for nine off their 20 overs, despite a stunning 65 off 36 deliveries from opener Grace Harris. The win was only Renegades’ second of the season and comes on the back of a run of wretched form that has left them rock bottom of the Women’s Big Bash League on four points. Their last win came on October 23 when they

crushed Adelaide Strikers by 86 runs before enduring a demoralising losing run which torpedoed their title chances. Sent in, Renegades lost England opener Tammy Beaumont for a 17-ball 20 but fellow opener Emma de Broughe struck 42 from 35 balls with three fours and a six, in a 42-run second wicket stand with India batting star Harmanpreet Kaur (22), to keep the innings ticking. When Harmanpreet perished at the start of the tenth over, Matthews arrived to

further energise Renegades, striking seven fours and a six in a 28-ball cameo as she inspired a 66-run, third wicket partnership with de Broughe. Nicola Hancock, a 28-year-old seamer, led Heat’s attack with four for 20 from her four overs. Matthews then gave Renegades the upper hand in the run chase when she removed opener Georgia Redmayne for two in the second over with only 13 runs on the board. Harris, who belted eight fours and two sixes, put on

West Indies and Renegades captain, Hayley Matthews

35 for the second wicket with Bess Heath (13) but wickets tumbled regularly thereafter to leave Renegades in control of the contest. With six required from

the final over, the game remained in limbo but Matthews held her nerve and conceded only three runs to take her side over the line.

Inter-Guiana Games 2023

Guyana dominate opening day proceedings; falter in Basketball By Calvin Chapman in Suriname LAST night, team Guyana girls’ and boys’ basketball teams suffered heavy defeats in their opening fixtures of the 2023 InterGuiana Games tournament; both to French Guiana at the Ismay van Wilgen Sporthal. In the male division they lost 90-76 while the females went down 64-23. In the boys’ clash, Guyana stood a better chance even though they found

themselves trailing by eight points in the first half. However, Guyana, which is coached by Courtenay Taylor and Warren Wilson, equalised before that period of play ended to have the score locked at 31-all. But that gruelling comeback was reduced to nothing as French Guiana went on an enterprising 16-0 run and never looked back. Kellon Phillips sunk an incredible game high 45 points for the Guyanese but did not have much contribution from his supporting cast as one other player made it to a double-digit score in Skip-

per Carmelo Man-Son-Hing with 14 points. Meanwhile, French Guiana had five players with double digit scores led by Hingile Laurent with 21 points. Speaking to Chronicle Sport after the loss, assistant boys’ Coach Taylor posited that he is not too disappointed with the performance of the players and it shows that they are able to compete. He noted that they will regroup and come better in their clash against Suriname. Earlier in the day, the Track & Field athletes showcased an impressive

performance. Guyana excelled in various events, securing 11 gold, six silver, and four bronze medals. Tianna Springer and Afri Blair earned gold in the 400m events. Javon Roberts, a CARIFTA gold medallist, added another gold in the Boys 13-17 1500m. In other events, Marissa Thomas and Athaleyha Hinckson secured gold in the Girls 13-17 1500m and 100m, respectively. Despite missing gold in the Girls' Javelin, Guyana claimed silver and bronze. In Boys' Javelin, Kaidon Persaud

secured gold. Immanuel Adams leaped to gold in the Boys' 13-18 Long Jump, while in Shot Put, Letifah James earned second place, and Jamie Fraser and Jaheme Henry won gold and bronze, respectively, in the Boys’ 13-17 category. The Boys’ 4x100m relay team, consisting of Newton, Cornette, Robert Marcus, and Enoc Munroe, secured victory. Opening day action also saw Guyana beating French Guiana 2-0, thanks to a brace from Omar Sam. In Chess, Guyana fe-

male team play played Suriname and drew the match with Aditi Joshi and Maliha Rajkumar on boards 2 and 4 respectively, taking home early wins in an epic way. Italy Chung had a hardfought game but the Suriname top female player came out on top, Aniyah Couchman fought a epic match for the time break bringing the game down to the very end but lost a pawn and the game shortly after. Guyana's male team will play Suriname today while the females rest until tomorrow.

Commins, MacBeth outdo Nandu as Ireland beat West Indies CMC – An unbeaten hundred from Test batsman Murray Commins, and three-wicket hauls from Scott MacBeth and Gavin Hoey left West Indies Academy with a 26-run defeat to Ireland Academy in the opening game of their three-match series here Friday. The 26-year-old Commins, who played his only two Tests earlier this year, carried his bat for 118 notout off 129 deliveries as the visitors gathered 245 off 49.1 overs after choosing to bat first at the Vivian Richards Cricket Stadium. In reply, West Indies Academy looked a great

beat for the win when opener Matthew Nandu struck 59 off 99 deliveries, his partner Kadeem Alleyne hit 42 off 30 balls, and Number Three Leonardo Julien chipped in with 28. However, 19-year-old off-spinner Scott MacBeth (3-33), and 22-year-old leg-spinner Gavin Hoey (343) grabbed three wickets apiece to send the home side crashing for 219 all-out in the 42nd over. The two teams square off again tomorrow at Coolidge Cricket Ground. Left-arm spinner Joshua Bishop (4-45) and fast bowler Johann Layne (252) scythed through the

Left-handed opener Matthew Nandu (file photo) top order with two wickets and off-spinner Kevin Wickapiece, as Ireland Academy ham (2-51) made key strikes collapsed to 37 for four in to leave the innings in dire straits at 123 for eight in the the 11th over. Hoey resisted with 25 30th over. However, Commins, from 31 balls, but Bishop

who lashed 14 fours and a six, anchored a 103-run ninth-wicket stand with Tom Mayes, who counter-attacked with two fours and three sixes in a 46-ball 51, to ensure Ireland Academy rallied at the back end of the innings. Facing a relatively straightforward run chase, the hosts started brightly as 20-year-old left-hander Nandu stroked three fours, putting on 58 for the first wicket with Alleyne, who struck two fours and three sixes. When Alleyne skied a pull at seamer Matthew Foster, and was brilliantly taken by Commins running back at

mid-wicket at the start of the ninth over, Julien arrived to add a further 59 for the second wicket with Nandu, and keep West Indies Academy on course. But Julien’s demise in the 21st over, stumped off MacBeth after being deceived in flight, triggered a slide that saw five wickets tumble for 35 runs, leaving West Indies Academy tottering on 152 for six at the start of the 28th over. Nandu and Junior Sinclair (28) posted 56 for the seventh wicket to revive their side’s fortunes, but once the stand was broken, the hosts lost their last four wickets for 11 runs.

GUYANA CHRONICLE, Saturday, November 18, 2023

Participants presented with Certificates as ‘Reds’ Commentator’s workshop concludes

Sports Minister Charles (centre) with Reds and participants THE Joseph ‘Reds’ Pereira Cricket Commentator’s workshop concluded yesterday at the Georgetown Cricket Club (GCC) at Bourda with the participants receiving certificates from the Minister of Culture, Youth & Sports, Charles Ramson. The final day, like the opening day, had tea/coffee

and a lunch break while Pereira provided the gathering with points to remember. There was also a three-minute ‘Tea time’ report done by the participants and selected one-toone after discussions on the documents that were distributed on the first day. Minister Ramson said

he was privileged to have a legend in his field in Guyana. “I hope you have learned from the workshop and understand that doing Radio Commentary and TV Commentary are different. I remember when my father and I would listen to cricket on a small black radio which created bonding”

disclosed the Sports Minister who, in his younger days, bowled left-arm spin for Everest at the first-division level. Minister Ramson told the participants that what was important was what they do going forward. The Head of the Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sport told the gathering

that If they are to be great they have to be obsessed with what they do and spend most of their time on improving what they do. Minister Ramson added changes are always there but knowing about them is critical when being able to adapt Reds will again travel to Berbice this afternoon as

he is among those who will be receiving an honorary Doctorate from the Tain faculty of the University of Guyana (UG). Reds will hold a press conference at 10:00hrs on Monday at the Guyana Pegasus Hotel before departing for St. Lucia, where he resides, later in the day.

Shabazz counting on squad for ‘stellar’ performance against Bahamas GUYANA’S Senior Men’s N a t i o n a l Te a m H e a d Coach, Jamaal Shabazz, is counting on his selected 22-member squad to deliver a stellar performance against Bahamas on Saturday and clinch the crucial point needed for promotion to League A of the Concacaf Nations League. Shabazz is confident in the chosen squad, featuring two goalkeepers, ten defenders, five midfielders, and five forwards. Notably, among them is Omari Glasgow, Guyana's top goal scorer and the second-highest scorer in League

B with six goals. The head coach anticipates their domination over Bahamas on November 18 at the Félix Sánchez Olympic Stadium in the Dominican Republic. “The players are well aware that this is a big moment for Guyana and what a win can do for our lives and our country. So our attitude is to give total effort,” Shabazz said. Adding that “we go into the game with the greatest respect for our opponent but with a deep desire to get a positive result. Injury to Reiss Greenidge, Jeremy

Garrett and Elliot Bonds means that we have had to find replacements not just in the squad but in the starting team, since they are usually first eleven players. So these two matches will test the depth of the squad and we are happy to have a newcomer in Canadian based Osaze DeRosario.” The following players have been selected for this pivotal match. Goalkeepers: Quillan Roberts and Akel Clarke Defenders: Curtez Kellman, Jalen Jones, Marcus Wilson, Colin Nelson, Leo Lovell, Raushan Ritch,

Liam Gordon, Jonathan Grant, Amos Ramsay and Marcus Simmons. Midfielders: Daniel Wilson, Stephen Duke-McKenna, Nathan Moriah-Welch, Darron Niles and Ryan Hackett. Forwards: Omari Glasgow, Kadel Daniels, Osaze DeRosario, Deon Moore and Kelsey Benjamin The team boasts a favourable record against Bahamas this season, having triumphed over them 3 - 2 on September 12. The Golden Jaguars presently lead the standings in League B,

Group D of the 2023/2024 Concacaf Nations League Group Stage with four points earned from three successive victories. Their winning streak includes triumphs over Antigua and Puerto Rico. Their sole aim for Saturday's game is clear: secure one point for the promotion to League A, attainable through either a win or a draw. Guyana Football Federation (GFF) President, Wayne Forde, said he was confident the squad can deliver a historic victory on Saturday. “The Golden Jaguars,

holding a substantial lead in the standings, are steadfast in their quest for victory to advance to League A. Their commitment is evident in their dedication in training. GFF and the entire football fraternity stand fully behind the Golden Jaguars on this history journey,” the GFF top executive shared. Under Forde’s administration, the GFF has made substantial investments in the national team programme with an aim to bolster Guyana’s position on both regional and international stages.

GUYANA CHRONICLE, Saturday, November 18, 2023

Blue Water Shipping makes financial contribution to Guyana-Suriname international friendlies BLUE Water Shipping has made a financial contribution to the highly anticipated four international friendlies between the Guyana and Suriname Girls' Under-17 National Teams scheduled for November and December. Guyana Football Federation (GFF) President, Wayne Forde, on November 17, received a one-million-dollar cheque from the company’s Senior Vice President of Operations, Jennifer Falconer, during a simple ceremony in Georgetown.

The handover event was also attended by Blue Water Shipping's Senior Vice President of Sales and Development, Richard DeNobrega and by the Under-17 national team. Falconer reaffirmed her company’s dedication to the advancement of girls and women in sports. “We wish the young ladies all the best. We are already cheering for them on this end,” she shared, adding: “Blue Water is very committed to being part of the development of girls/ women in sports and we're happy to be a

part of the sponsorship of this tournament.” Guyana and Suriname teams are preparing for four fiercely competitive matches. The first two games are set for November 25 and 26 in Guyana. Guyana will then journey to Suriname for two away games scheduled to be held on December 16 and 17. GFF President Forde noted that the friendlies offer Guyana’s Under-17 team invaluable growth opportunities on the international stage and thanked Blue Water Shipping for

its continued support. “International game time is critical for the development of our U17 female national team. We have entered into an agreement with the Suriname Football Association to play four matches, which received the generous support of our enduring partner - Blue Water Shipping. “I would like to thank the Management of Blue Water Shipping for their continued support and investment in the development of football and the young people of our

Some of the players stand with GFF President, Wayne Forde (extreme left) and Blue Water Shipping’s Senior Vice President of Sales and Development, Richard DeNobrega (extreme right) nation.” The GFF-Blue Water Shipping Girls Under-15 Developmental League was launched in 2022 as a talent identification platform for the national

team programme. President Forde’s administration remains dedicated to providing global exposure for all national teams.

GUYANA CHRONICLE, Saturday, November 18, 2023

Guyana’s Ezekiel Saul (right) marks Hingile Laurent of French Guiana (Calvin Chapman photo)

Inter-Guiana Games 2023

Guyana dominate opening day proceedings; falter in Basketball SEE PAGE

Aniyah Couchman in action for Guyana in Chess (Calvin Chapman photo)

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| SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 18, 2023