President Ali calls for open dialogue on U.S. naval presence in Caribbean

President Dr. Mohamed Irfaan Ali has called on Caribbean leaders to engage in open and transparent discussions regarding the growing presence of U.S. naval forces in the region, emphasizing the need for careful analysis and collective understanding of security matters.

In an interview with journalist Kiana Wilburg, this morning, President Ali acknowledged that while some regional leaders may view the U.S. military buildup positively, particularly in tackling transnational crime and security threats, Guyana believes that the situation requires a more nuanced and cautious approach. He urged regional partners to approach these developments with “eyes wide open” and to prioritize informed dialogue over assumptions.

“The zone of peace is not only about threats to borders. It’s also about threats that we are now seeing,” President Ali said, citing concerns such as drug trafficking, illegal migration, and the use of international waterways for transshipment. He stressed that these challenges must be addressed collectively and with clear-eyed awareness of potential implications for all Caribbean nations.

President Ali reiterated Guyana’s longstanding commitment to promoting the Caribbean as a “zone of peace,” emphasizing that the nation has consistently responded to threats with diplomacy and factual engagement rather than hostility. He highlighted ongoing tensions with Venezuela, noting that despite repeated personal and political attacks against him and the country, Guyana has maintained a measured, truth-based approach in its foreign policy.

Highlighting the importance of regional collaboration, President Ali called for increased intelligence sharing and joint discussions among Caribbean nations to assess the impact of military movements in the southern Caribbean. “What is needed is a meeting of minds, a meeting to share intelligence and to share information, so a fuller understanding of what is at stake here for all of us,” he said.

The U.S. has reportedly increased its naval presence in the region, deploying several warships, submarines, and personnel in operations described as counter-narcotics initiatives. While the build-up has raised concerns, President Ali stressed that open dialogue, transparency, and cooperative strategies are essential for safeguarding regional peace and stability.

Through these measures, he said, Caribbean nations can collectively confront emerging security challenges while maintaining the principles of diplomacy and cooperation that have historically underpinned regional stability.