President Mohamed Irfaan Ali to grace Saint Lucia's 45th Independence anniversary

Dr Mohamed Irfaan Ali, President of Guyana, will be the guest of honour at Saint Lucia’s 45^th independence anniversary observances.

On Wednesday, February 21, 2024, President Ali will address the Saint Lucia Chamber of Commerce, Industry and Agriculture Luncheon.

Under Ali’s watch, Guyana’s economic size has quadrupled over the past few years, shifting from one of the worst performers in the region to the fastest growing in the world for two years in a row.

Saint Lucia’s independence celebration will get a touch of Guyanese gold with President Ali’s visit.

President Ali is expected to speak to chamber business leaders offering insights, perspectives and prospects for the Guyanese economy and how Saint Lucian businessmen can capitalize on this growth and success.

The Saint Lucia private sector body said “It promises to be an enlightening and enriching experience for all attendees,” in relation to the event to take place at the Harbour Club from 12:30 pm.

This will also provide a moment of opportunity for skill sharing, networking and developing further relations between communities.

This economic growth has also been the subject of controversy, igniting a century-old border dispute. Venezuela has claimed ownership of the Essequibo region, one that is of great strategic and economic value to whoever controls it.

After the conflict seemed to be on a path of escalation, on December 14^th 2023, representatives of the two nations met and engaged in a discussion lasting more than eight hours at which point it was agreed that neither nation would directly or indirectly threaten or use force against one another under any circumstance.

While recent talks offer a glimpse of hope for a peaceful resolution, an International Court of Justice ruling looms over both nations, underscoring the delicate and elaborate dance that Guyana is navigating to ensure that its newfound wealth becomes a lasting blessing instead of an irreparable curse.