United States Ambassador to Guyana Nicole Theriot says she believes the government of President Dr. Mohamed Irfaan Ali is pursuing a development agenda aimed at improving the lives of Guyanese, citing major infrastructure expansion and the use of oil revenues to build long-term national capacity.
Speaking during the SOURCES programme, Theriot said she has observed what she described as a broad and visible push to modernise the country, not only in the capital but across multiple regions.
“I honestly believe that the current leadership of this country has the Guyanese people’s best interests at heart,” the ambassador said.
Theriot pointed to the scale of construction and public works underway, saying the impact of the government’s investment drive is evident throughout the country.
She said her travels across Guyana have shown that major development is taking place well beyond Georgetown, with infrastructure projects visible in communities nationwide.
According to the ambassador, the government appears to be using the country’s oil earnings to finance projects intended to deliver lasting benefits for citizens and support future growth.
She also addressed criticism that large infrastructure spending does not immediately ease everyday hardships, arguing that roads and related projects have direct practical value for ordinary people.
Referencing a point often made by President Ali, Theriot said while critics may argue that “you can’t eat a road,” improved transport links can reduce travel time, improve access to markets and services, and create greater opportunities for farmers, businesses and families.
She said those improvements can have a real effect on the day-to-day lives of citizens by making movement easier and economic activity more efficient.
Theriot described Guyana as moving in a positive direction overall and said she sees signs of forward momentum in the country’s current development trajectory.
She also welcomed Guyana’s continued engagement with the United States, saying Washington values its role as a partner in the country’s growth and transformation.
The ambassador said collaboration with American firms can also bring added value through what she described as strong quality standards, sustainability and high levels of business ethics.
She added that Guyana’s decision to work closely with US partners has, in her view, been a beneficial one.