Guyana ‘future proofing’ its economy–President Ali says, highlights government’s push to position country as global leader in biodiversity, climate, ecological services

GUYANA has signalled its intention to become a global leader in biodiversity and ecosystem services as President Dr. Irfaan Ali, on an official visit to the United Kingdom, announced plans for a Commonwealth Centre of Excellence on Biodiversity in Guyana and revealed renewed backing from King Charles for the country’s pioneering work on climate, forests and the environment.

The Head of State, in a video posted to his Facebook page Wednesday morning, disclosed that discussions were held on creating a market-based biodiversity financing model to fund conservation and ecosystem services.

He stressed that the government intends to position the country as a global leader in biodiversity and ecosystem services, linked to pharmaceuticals, indigenous culture, rights and language.

President Ali and his delegation also met with the Commonwealth Secretary-General, Shirley Botchwey, who he confirmed is backing the establishment of a Commonwealth Centre of Excellence on Biodiversity in Guyana.