Prime Minister reaffirms ‘25 by 2025 plus 5’ target at Chilean Independence Reception

Prime Minister, Brigadier (Ret’d) the Honourable Mark Phillips, reaffirmed the government’s goal to achieve the ‘25 by 2025 plus 5’ target, aimed at reducing CARICOM’s food import bill and strengthening agricultural resilience, during a reception marking the 215th Independence Anniversary of the Republic of Chile on Monday night at the Guyana Marriott Hotel Georgetown.

Speaking at the event, Prime Minister Phillips highlighted Guyana’s leadership within CARICOM on food security and noted that the country continues to engage like-minded strategic partners to support the advancement of the agriculture sector and secure the food and nutrition needs of the region.

The Prime Minister also underscored Guyana’s commitment to deepening cooperation with Chile, emphasizing shared objectives of regional peace, sustainable development, and mutual prosperity. “Guyana salutes the remarkable journey of the Chilean people, their resilience, democratic traditions, and unwavering commitment to the advancement of their country,” he said.

Since establishing diplomatic relations in 1971, Guyana and Chile have strengthened bilateral engagements, creating opportunities for a sustained partnership that benefits both nations. Prime Minister Phillips highlighted the Political Consultations held in July 2025, which provided a framework to advance collaboration in new priority areas, including trade, agriculture, and renewable energy, signaling a mutual intent to strengthen cooperation.

He further commended Chile’s active role in regional integration, noting continued engagement within CELAC, the Brasilia Consensus, the Organization of American States (OAS), and the CARICOM–Chile mechanism. “Through the workings of these mechanisms and our individual and collective efforts, we have managed to maintain peace and stability in our region, buttressed by our shared values, including democracy, the rule of law, adherence to the United Nations Charter and International Law, and the respect for sovereignty and territorial integrity,” he stated.

Prime Minister Phillips also reaffirmed Guyana’s commitment to advancing the Low Carbon Development Strategy (LCDS) 2030, promoting a comprehensive approach to climate change, and enhancing food and energy security. As COP 30 approaches in Belém, Brazil, he called for decisive global climate action and equitable access to climate finance for vulnerable states. “Guyana maintains its call for equitable access to climate finance in order to help vulnerable states adapt, mitigate, and address loss and damage.”

Concluding his remarks, the Prime Minister emphasized Guyana’s readiness to continue working alongside Chile to promote sustainability, environmental protection, and inclusive development. “We are confident that the bonds of friendship and cooperation between our nations will continue to flourish and bring us prosperity that is inclusive, sustainable, and enduring.”