Guyana’s Prime Minister, Brigadier (Ret’d) Mark Phillips, has emphasised that Caribbean nations need to diversify their energy resources and that more American investment is needed to do so.
PM Phillips delivered remarks at the US-Caribbean Dialogue held at the US Department of State in Washington, DC, on Wednesday, October 15 — an event hosted by Deputy Secretary of State Christopher Landau and attended by high-level delegations from across the Caribbean.
“Energy security is a cornerstone of the region’s prosperity and sustainable growth. As energy demand increases across the region, a diversified energy matrix is required, utilising all energy resources available,” he was quoted as saying in a release from his Office.
Energy diversification, logistics, critical and digital infrastructure, and the transfer of innovative technologies were identified as key areas in which Caribbean nations could benefit from increased US investment. PM Phillips pointed to existing US investments in Guyana’s oil and gas sector as examples of the opportunities available — including Lindsayca, the Houston-based contractor executing the government’s flagship Gas-to-Energy project at Wales, West Bank Demerara.
He also referenced the US-Guyana Investment Forum, held in Washington in July 2026, as a reflection of the two countries’ shared commitment to strengthening commercial ties.
The Prime Minister believes there is significant room for increased US investment in Guyana’s and the region’s energy sector. The region has been hard-hit by global shocks, including the ongoing Iran conflict, which has driven up oil prices. Caribbean nations import almost all the petroleum products they consume, so global disruptions can cause prices to soar. With greater investment — from the establishment or redevelopment of refineries and fuel storage facilities to the development of more renewable energy projects — the region would be better positioned to withstand such shocks.
Beyond energy, PM Phillips underscored the significance of the economic relationship between the United States and the Caribbean, noting that the US remains the region’s largest trading partner and source of foreign direct investment.
“This partnership offers tremendous opportunities for sustained economic growth in the region,” he said.
The Prime Minister also stressed the importance of continued investment in disaster preparedness and response, particularly given the vulnerabilities faced by Caribbean countries, as well as the need for stronger healthcare systems and greater collaboration in health security.
On regional security, Phillips highlighted the persistent threats posed by transnational organised crime, narcotics trafficking and the illicit flow of firearms, stressing that these challenges require collective action. He noted Guyana’s role as a founding member of the Shield of the Americas and the Americas Counter Cartel Coalition, and the country’s commitment to addressing these threats through regional and international partnerships.
“Guyana looks forward to engaging in constructive dialogue that strengthens our collective capacity to address challenges while unlocking new opportunities for regional growth and development,” he said.
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