United States Ambassador to Guyana Nicole Theriot has dismissed suggestions that Washington is seeking to dominate Guyana, describing the relationship as an equal partnership that benefits both countries.
“It’s a partnership. It’s 50-50, absolutely. There is no dominance. It is very, very much a partnership,” Theriot said during a recent interview.
The ambassador was responding to questions arising from President Dr Irfaan Ali’s appearance on CNN, where he discussed American influence, energy co-operation and Guyana’s sovereignty.
Theriot maintained that the United States also gains from its ties with Guyana, stressing the importance of benefits flowing to both sides.
During the CNN interview, anchor Jim Sciutto questioned whether President Donald Trump’s approach to the Western Hemisphere could raise concerns about Washington seeking control rather than co-operation. He referenced Trump’s remarks about Greenland, Canada and Venezuela.
Ali said this did not reflect Guyana’s experience.
“I don’t see the US as trying to force us or trying to be a dominant force with Guyana,” the President said.
He identified development and security as key areas of co-operation, while maintaining that stronger ties must rest on mutual respect, shared values and benefits for both countries.
“We are a sovereign state, and we are working with the US as a partner,” Ali said.
The discussion also covered Guyana’s oil industry and the ExxonMobil production-sharing agreement signed under the previous administration.
Ali acknowledged shortcomings in the agreement but said his government would respect the contract while pursuing greater benefits for Guyanese.
“Whilst it may not be a contract that offers the best deal to the country, it is a contract that we have entered into as a country.”
He also outlined plans for investment vehicles through which Guyanese families could put money into energy projects and earn returns, giving citizens a more direct stake in the sector.
On the territorial controversy with Venezuela, Ali reiterated that Guyana is pursuing a resolution through the International Court of Justice. He said Guyana would respect the court’s ruling and urged Venezuela to do likewise.
The United States has repeatedly expressed support for Guyana’s sovereignty and territorial integrity.
