Guyana’s diplomats hosted a 59th Anniversary of Independence reception at JPAC on Might 21, imbued with honor and patriotism to begin every week of actions within the diaspora. From left, Fazil Joe Yussuff, emcee Claire Patterson Monah, Ambassador Carolyn Rodrigues Birkett, and Consul Basic Ambassador Michael E. Brotherson.
Photograph by Tangerine Clarke
Guyana’s diplomats raised their glasses final Wednesday, Might 21, in a celebratory toast to the nation’s 59th Anniversary of Independence throughout a reception imbued with honor and patriotism.
Consul Basic Ambassador Michael E. Brotherson, in opposition to a backdrop of the nation’s symbolic nationwide colours on the Jamaica Efficiency Arts Middle (JPAC), hailed the celebration of Independence at a time when Guyana was acknowledged as a major and dependable actor within the worldwide System.
“Our nation’s horizons are being broadened quickly, and this achievement have to be credited to the visionary and sustained management and efforts of President Ali and his Authorities,” stated CG Brotherson, who hosted the occasion with Everlasting Consultant to the UN, Ambassador Carolyn Rodrigues-Birkett.
“We carry greetings from His Excellency President Mohamed Irfaan Ali and the Authorities and other people of Guyana. The Honorable Minister of Overseas Affairs and Worldwide Cooperation, Hugh Hilton Todd, has additionally requested me to convey his honest greetings to you on this vital event,” he informed the packed room of compatriots and members of the Counselor Corps.
“In Might 1966, Independence meant that we gained political autonomy, and a nation was cast with a specific id and sovereignty. Immediately, palpable proof confirms that Guyana has etched an indelible place as a progressive, fast-developing, and engaging nation and a revered chief in some respects,” stated the diplomat.
“Nevertheless, we should always by no means take our progress without any consideration. We should keep dedicated to the beliefs of our nation. And as we accomplish that, we undoubtedly will really feel pleased with the unprecedented stage of financial and social improvement our nation is experiencing right this moment.”
He famous that it’s “most apposite for us to make use of the observance of this auspicious milestone to reaffirm the sacrosanct of Guyana’s sovereignty and territorial integrity. And as we do, we should additionally bear in mind and laud the resilience and patriotism of the Guyanese folks, together with you right here in our huge diaspora.”
“The diaspora is certainly necessary to Guyana’s improvement, and as you collect right here right this moment in your numbers, I can say with utmost certainty that you’re really vindicating the significance that the Authorities of Guyana locations on diaspora relations and nationwide improvement.”
“It, due to this fact, offers me immense pleasure to hitch with you fantastic diasporans, and all current, in elevating a toast to Guyana’s 59th Independence Anniversary, to the unfettered preservation of our sovereignty and territorial integrity, and to the continued improvement and prosperity of the Cooperative Republic of Guyana, stated the diplomat.
Ambassador Carolyn Rodrigues Burkett stated the nostalgic salute, accompanied by nice leisure by Rick Dalgetty’s Tropical Waves string band and delectable cutters, was a time of celebration for reflection and gratitude.
“The twenty sixth of Might is a vital day for our nation and for all Guyanese, no matter the place we could dwell. It’s the day when, after many struggles within the struggle for our Independence from Nice Britain, our flag – the Golden Arrowhead – was flown for the primary time; when, for the primary time, we sang our personal nationwide anthem and recited our pledge,” she stated proudly.
“All of this symbolized that we have been now a free Nation with our personal future to construct,” stated Burkett, everlasting consultant to the United Nations.
The diplomat spoke of peace and unity, noting that there have by no means been extra important for Guyana. “The event of our nation has taken off like by no means earlier than. On the identical time, we face our greatest hazard since Independence – the menace to our sovereignty and territorial integrity by certainly one of our neighbors who claims two-thirds of our nation. The Authorities of that nation has gone as far as to name a sham election, ostensibly for the governance of a part of our territory, and in opposition to the order of the Worldwide Court docket of Justice.”
“We’re witnessing a fast and optimistic transformation of our nation, led by our energetic and forward-thinking President, Dr. Mohamed Irfaan Ali, and supported by Prime Minister Mark Phillips and Vice President Bharrat Jagdeo – each who’ve served and proceed to serve Guyana with excellence.”
“Immediately, we’re higher off. Encourage your relations again house to make use of those alternatives which can be out there in each sector,” she urged compatriots.
Jeremiah Hyacinth, consul common of Saint Lucia and newly appointed head of the Caribbean Consular Corps, prolonged needs on behalf of his colleagues, including, as you replicate in your nation within the years previous and what it means to be Guyanese at house and overseas,, over the previous 59 years, you need to be immensely pleased with what you as a folks have achieved, and take pleasure within the great contributions Guyanese continues to make whereas working tirelessly.”
“Guyana continues to have a profound influence on international warming; due to this fact, it’s in a joyous spirit of celebration and renewed dedication that I lengthen my honest greetings on the birthday of your nation,” stated CG Hyacinth, who lauded CG Brotherson for his sterling contribution to the diaspora.
In short closing remarks, Fazil Joe Yussuff, advisor on Funding Affairs, Diaspora Unit, expressed gratitude to the celebrants for attending the celebration.
“Thanks for being right here right this moment, he stated, noting the presence and distinctive and indelible work the employees of the diplomatic workplaces put in to make sure the success of the night’s proceedings that Claire Patterson-Monah emceed.
Yussuff referred to as on nationals to return to their homeland and expertise the fast transformation of improvement happening. “I need to encourage you to return to see what your homeland is right this moment in comparison with 39 years in the past,” he implored.
He additionally spoke of the immense high quality of the celebration whereas acknowledging President Irfaan Ali’s tower picture on banners hung above the reception corridor and applauding the chief for his dedication to improvement and unity in Guyana and the diaspora.
The Consul Basic of St. Vincent and the Grenadines, Rony McIntosh, and the Communications Officer of the Jamaica Consulate, Christopher Benjamin, have been additionally in attendance.
The commemoration will proceed with a flag-raising ceremony on Friday, Might 23, at Bowling Inexperienced in decrease Manhattan, adopted by an Aerial Flyover – Celebrating Guyana within the Diaspora on Independence Day, Might 26 from 12 p.m. to six p.m.
The glory flyover will happen in New York Metropolis, the southern shoreline of Lengthy Island, the Hudson River hall, and Brooklyn.
