GDF Headquarters, Georgetown- In congratulating the Guyana Defence Force for the progress in efficiency, budgeting and standing orders, the President said his Government will continue to capitalize the army and urged members to examine the growth of expenditure over the past decade. The Commander in chief added ; "We have progressively increased the budget of the army every year and expect that all will operate within the confines of fiscal sustainability". He implored on the GDF officers to take serious note of the short and long term global challenges and it’s effect to Guyana, noting that the local challenges must be taken into account in crafting an economic and future strategy. "The pre-requisites for implementing the future strategy calls for a country that is stable, in terms of law and order and secured within it’s borders", he added. Touching on Information Technology the head of state explained that the GDF must deliberate on how ICT can influence the army in conducting it’s duties.
" We have a critical position this year, we hold the presidency of UNASUR, and therefore Guyana now speak on behalf of the entire South America".Jagdeo posited that this diplomacy helps the country with border issues of which the army ‘s role is critical."We are forging stronger relations with Brazil, Venezuela and Suriname, and we have agreed with our neighbors to move the relationship beyond border issues", Jagdeo said.
