GEORGETOWN, Guyana — President Dr. Irfaan Ali on Wednesday said Guyana’s investment in the Guyana Defence Force (GDF) is not a step toward militarization, but a strategic effort to protect national progress, ensure stability and secure long-term prosperity.
Speaking at the commissioning parade for Standard Officers’ Course No. 56 at Base Camp Ayanganna, Ali stressed that as Guyana experiences rapid economic growth, safeguarding the nation’s development requires a strong, modern and capable defence force.
“True progress is not measured in GDP figures or economic charts alone,” he said. “True progress is measured in lives improved, in opportunities created, in our environment preserved, and in our shared values strengthened.”
However, he cautioned that growth cannot be sustained without security.
“For a nation to flourish, its prosperity must be protected,” Ali said. “Without security, progress remains vulnerable, and the gains of development cannot be fully realized.”
The president made it clear that defence investment is not an act of aggression.
“When we invest in national defence, it is not an investment in war. It is an investment in peace,” he said. “It is not preparation for conquest. It is preparation for protection.”
Ali outlined recent advancements in military modernization, including new aerial platforms, hangars, drone-based surveillance and improved infrastructure.
“The vision is clear: to build, deploy, and operate a modern, smart and resilient force in support of national defence and development,” he said.
He emphasized that the Defence Force plays a critical role beyond traditional military duties — including disaster response, emergency support and community service.
“We are not building a military of aggression,” Ali said. “We are building a military of assurance — a defence force that is not only a shield against threats, but a partner in emergencies, a contributor to national progress, and an anchor of regional stability.”
The president also connected defence readiness with the protection of natural resources.
“Our men and women in uniform stand ready to safeguard our territorial integrity and sovereignty, ensuring that our land, rivers, forests and resources — from gold to diamonds — remain secure,” he said.
Ali vowed that the GDF would continue to receive the tools, training and technology needed to meet emerging challenges on land, at sea, in the air and in cyberspace.
“The GDF is already the best equipped it has ever been in its history,” he said. “And things will only get better.”
He concluded with a reminder: strong defence is the foundation of a secure and prosperous nation.
“By protecting our prosperity, we protect our future,” Ali said.