Guyana stands in solidarity with France- Gov’t/Opposition

A 31-year-old man identified as Mohamed Lahouaiej-Bouhlel, on July 14, drove a 20-ton truck through hundreds gathered to watch the Bastille Day fireworks on the Promenade des Anglais, in the French city of Nice, crushing and hitting several persons. 84 persons were killed; children included, while more than 200 people were injured. Bouhlel was shot to death by police.

During a reception held by the French Consulate in Guyana to observe its National Day last evening, President David Granger, said that Guyana stands firmly behind France.

“Guyana joins in condemning this terrorist act. We extend our deepest condolences to the President, to the Government, to the French people and to the families of all those killed in this repugnant act of terror. Guyana reiterates its repudiation of the use of violence against innocent civilians. We abhor the use of force to settle disputes and to unsettle peace and security both amongst and within nations,” President Granger said.

Additionally, the People’s Progressive Party in a statement on Saturday condemned the killing, saying that it “abhors any act of terrorism perpetuated on citizens of any Nation of the world.”

Guyana has long been part of the worldwide struggle against international terrorism and terrorist-related activities, the PPP highlighted.

During Saturday’s reception, the Head of State highlighted that Guyana and France have enjoyed cordial relations since the establishment of diplomatic ties June 22, 1967.

The President highlighted that “Guyana is appreciative of France’s support especially in the fields of culture, education and public safety. The friendship between our two republics forms a firm foundation [upon] which to enhance our collaboration in confronting common transnational threats.”

He applauds France’s efforts and, particularly, the leadership of President François Hollande in ensuring the achievement of a global agreement on climate change in Paris last December, noting that Guyana’s ‘green’ agenda incorporates the commitments that we made at the signing of the Paris Agreement.

In the meantime, France’s Ambassador to Guyana, Mr. Michael Prom, expressed appreciation for the care and support, which has been shown by the Guyanese people to his country in its time of grief. The Ambassador said that Guyana and France’s relations have always been more than bilateral and it is his hope that this will continue to grow over the coming days, especially in the area of climate change.