Guyana: Guyana Denies Suriname’s Claim on Corentyne Bridge Financing

Guyana has officially denied claims made by Suriname regarding the financing of the Corentyne River Bridge. The assertion from Suriname suggested that President Irfaan Ali was informed by Surinamese President Jennifer Geerlings-Simons about a financing plan for the bridge nearly two months ago. In a statement released late Friday, Foreign Minister Hugh Todd emphasized that during the meeting on May 15, there was no discussion regarding the financing of the bridge.

Todd stated, “Guyana wishes to categorically state that in the meeting held on May 15, there was no discussion on financing of the bridge or a signal of departure from the collaborative approach that has guided the project from its inception.” He further clarified that Guyana has not been informed through established bilateral mechanisms that Suriname intended to take sole responsibility for financing the bridge.

In response to the claims made in Suriname’s National Assembly, Dr. Ali had previously dismissed the assertion. However, the Surinamese Ministry of Foreign Affairs maintained that Dr. Ali was informed of their intention to finance the bridge.

The Government of Guyana noted that the bridge project has always been viewed as a joint initiative, requiring collaboration on planning, financing, construction, and management. Todd’s statement reiterated that the Joint Technical Working Group has been tasked with continuing discussions on the project’s financial, technical, and operational aspects.

Guyana also recalled that the bilateral discussions regarding the bridge were advanced following a Memorandum of Understanding established in 2020. Both nations have engaged potential development partners to secure financing for the project, which is seen as beneficial for both countries.

Furthermore, Guyana expressed its commitment to the realization of the Corentyne River Bridge, emphasizing the importance of transparency, mutual respect, and joint decision-making in the process. The government remains open to continuing discussions through the agreed bilateral mechanisms to advance this significant infrastructure project.

Source: demerarawaves.com