A defence partnership agreement was signed yesterday between Guyana and the United States and it is expected to ensure increased safeguards against illegal fishing in this country’s waters.
Speaking at a joint press conference following the signing of the acquisition and cross-servicing agreement to strengthen the US’s and Guyana’s security cooperation in logistics, repairs and supplies as well as trade in goods and services, Guyana Defence Force Chief of Staff, Brigadier Godfrey Bess yesterday said that the majority of vessels involved in illegal fishing in Guyana’s waters originate in Venezuela and Suriname.
Also present was United States Southern Command Commander, Admiral Craig Faller, who noted that as part of collaborative efforts with the Coast Guard here under Operation Southern Cross, a joint exercise to deal with illegal fishing, was recently carried out.
