Latest update July 4th, 2026 12:40 AM
UK, Guyana seal major forest partnership
(Kaieteur News) – The Ministry of Natural Resources (MNR), on Wednesday signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the United Kingdom to establish a strengthened framework for cooperation under the Forest Governance, Markets and Climate Programme (FGMC2).
The United Kingdom was represented by the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO).
Minister of Natural Resources Vickram Bharrat and British High Commissioner to Guyana, HE Jane Miller OBE shake hands as representatives of the Ministry of Natural Resources and the Government of the United Kingdom look on following Tuesdays signing of the MoU.
The MoU reinforces Guyana’s global leadership in sustainable forest management, low-carbon development, and climate action.
According to a statement issued by the Department of Public Information (DPI), “the signing ceremony marks a significant milestone in the longstanding and trusted partnership between Guyana and the UK—one grounded in shared values, mutual respect, and a joint commitment to safeguarding the world’s forests and forest-dependent communities.”
Minister of Natural Resources Vickram Bharrat said that the agreement deepens technical cooperation at a time of growing global focus on sustainable forestry. He reaffirmed Guyana’s commitment to maintaining low deforestation and strengthening national forest governance systems. The minister emphasised that the agreement directly supports the national priorities articulated by President Irfaan Ali under the Low Carbon Development Strategy 2030 (LCDS 2030).
President Ali’s LCDS 2030 sets out a transformative pathway for Guyana—one that harnesses the economic value of its forests, biodiversity, and ecosystem services while creating new opportunities for communities and delivering global climate benefits.
The press release noted that Tuesday’s signing of the MoU with the UK contributes to the president’s vision by providing targeted support to: Support Guyana’s forest governance architecture; Expand sustainable market access for timber and other forest products; Enhance financial sustainability and economic opportunities for forest-dependent communities.
“The collaboration will also support the establishment of the Guyana Timber Legality
Minister of Natural Resources Vickram Bharrat and British High Commissioner to Guyana, HE Jane Miller OBE sign the MoU.
Assurance System (GTLAS) that underpin credible, transparent, and internationally recognised forest management systems,” the release said noting that the MoU reaffirms the UK’s confidence in Guyana’s forest stewardship and acknowledges Guyana’s exceptional record as one of the world’s most intact, sustainably managed tropical forest countries.
Through the FGMC2 programme, the UK will continue to provide technical, institutional, and implementation support—including through the European Forest Institute’s Rapid Response Programme and other collaborative mechanisms.
Meanwhile, British High Commissioner Jane Miller OBE reiterated the UK’s strong commitment to working alongside Guyana to address global climate and biodiversity challenges. She noted that Guyana’s leadership—from the Glasgow Leaders’ Declaration on Forests to its pioneering carbon markets—continues to set a powerful example for countries worldwide.
“The partnership will deliver real benefits for Guyanese communities and the national economy by reinforcing sustainable forest management practices, enhancing cross- sectoral decision-making, and ensuring that forests continue to generate long-term economic value while protecting biodiversity and cultural heritage.”
The DPI said the MoU further complements Guyana’s role in global initiatives such as the Forest and Climate Leaders Partnership, the Global Biodiversity Alliance, and the Kunming Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework.
“The Ministry of Natural Resources welcomes this renewed collaboration as a model of effective, modern climate diplomacy—one that aligns domestic priorities with international support to deliver shared global outcomes. Guyana looks forward to continuing its strong partnership with the UK as both countries work together to safeguard forests, expand sustainable development pathways, and accelerate climate ambition.”
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