Teams urged to build closer relations as 2014 Inter Guiana Games commences

Aug 02, 2014 Sports

Amidst the sonorous beats of the Guyana Police Force drums, the three contingents from French Guiana, Suriname and Guyana paraded before a high level delegation led by Prime Minister, Samuel Hinds, Sports Minister of Suriname, Ismanto Tiana, French Guiana representative, Fortune Mecene and Jean-Claude Mariema, President of Comité Regional Olympique et Sportif de Guyana.

Prime Minister Sam Hinds receives a gift from French Guiana representative, Fortune Mecene and President of Comité Regional Olympique et Sportif de Guyana, Jean-Claude Mariema (L & R respectively)

The occasion was the grand opening of 2014 Inter Guiana Games at the Cliff Anderson Sports Hall (CASH), Homestretch Avenue yesterday afternoon. In the absence of Minister of Culture, Youth and Sports, Frank Anthony, who is out of the country on official business, Prime Minister, Sam Hinds was tasked with delivering the keynote address. He welcomed the visiting teams and their management while noting the efforts and sacrifices they would have made to participate. He said that the forum presented the perfect opportunity for the three countries to strengthen relations even as they engage in fierce rivalry. “These games are also important for the interaction and camaraderie it provides and we look forward to a closer relationship as the years go by,” said Mr. Hinds.
Other speakers included Permanent Secretary within the Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sports, Alfred King, who welcomed the teams while pointing out the similarity in experiences at a cultural and sports level. Suriname Sports minister, Ismanto Tiana, pointed out that the forum aspires to create strong and healthy relations among the youths. “We expect you to play with passion but most importantly we expect fair play and strengthening relations,” implored Mr. Tiana.
Shortly afterwards, the flags of the participating countries were hoisted followed by the playing of the National Anthems. Those in attendance were also entertained by a group of dancers from the National School of Dance. Director of Youth and Sports, Neil Kumar, performed the duties of Master of Ceremonies.