– Discussed bilateral, regional relations

-by NaAsia Bristol

President Dr. Irfaan Ali has met with Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney on the sidelines of the Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting in Antigua and Barbuda.

The discussions focused on strengthening Guyana-Canada and Canada-CARICOM relations, with particular attention to climate action, biodiversity conservation and development financing.

The meeting was held on the sidelines of the Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting in Antigua and Barbuda, where both leaders also discussed expanding Canada’s engagement with CARICOM.

Prime Minister Carney says discussions build on previous engagements between the two leaders and will also address biodiversity and development.

“Lots to discuss: global biodiversity, development, our trade relationship, investment relationship, but also what this meeting is about, which is taking the Commonwealth to the next level and being a major force for good,” he explained.

President Ali welcomed Canada’s continued engagement with the region, highlighting opportunities to strengthen cooperation in trade, development, security and climate action.

“Let me thank you for the enormous global leadership that you’re demonstrating, and more importantly for your strong commitment to the Commonwealth and strong commitment to building relationships, expanding relationship here in CARICOM, especially in relation to trade, development, security, climate and nature, which include biodiversity, and of course development financing,” he said.
The two leaders agreed to continue discussions at the bilateral level, building on previous engagements in Toronto and subsequent conversations.