We must align our economy and trade with more South American markets

Sep 06, 2008 Letters

DEAR EDITOR,
One significant feature of Carifesta X was the participation of our three South American neighbours in the festival. In fact, the head of state of Suriname was present for the opening ceremony.
Carifesta X should be the bridge which will transport us from the stagnant comfort zone of our Caribbean heritage to the new horizon of our South American destiny and ultimate prosperity. The Brazilian Air Show was spectacular, but looking beyond the awesome display we should reflect on the fact that the airplanes were manufactured in Brazil.
This tells us that Brazil, the largest country in South America by size (3,286,488 square miles) and population (170,000,000) has all the science and technology of any developed industrialised country. We have much to gain from a policy decision to establish meaningful social, economic and cultural ties with this South American giant.
The Venezuelan performances and exhibits reminded us that the youths of our two countries have the same vibrancy of spirit, exuberance of demeanour and expectations of the future.
The Suriname contingent informed us through their performances and displays that our cultures though diverse are not dissimilar.
We must envisage what level of prosperity we would like to enjoy by mid-century.
We can remain in the present stagnant association with the Caribbean which cannot even establish a regional airline which is long overdue and badly needed or we can embrace our ultimate continental destiny with all the prospects for prosperity.
We must align our economy and trade with South American markets, while not totally abandoning our present association with Caricom.
We must be mindful that Guyana has not gained much from this association and despite the platitudes this trend will not change.
Furthermore, individual countries in this union are exploring new initiatives which they think will benefit their peoples. What then can be the complaint if we seek opportunities which will benefit Guyana? This initiative by Guyana can very well be the catalyst which will bring the entire Caribbean into a meaningful union with the vast market of South America. The time is now. We must be decisive and overt in our intentions.
Lloyd H Marshall

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