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Commonwealth Parliamentary Association (CPA) Secretary-General, Akbar Khan has commended the government for the work done over the past three years to further the development of Guyana. He especially noted the areas of social cohesion, ICT and providing basic services to the people in the hinterland.

“The progress I’ve observed in terms of the Government’s agenda is very ambitious. There is a lot of work being done to further development,” Khan stressed during a press briefing today at the National Assembly.

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The Secretary-General was also satisfied with the progress made in fostering social cohesion, which is aligned with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) of the United Nations (UN).

Khan, who is Guyanese by birth, noted that “it is incredibly humbling and pleasing to see the government leading on social cohesion and although it is in its third year, it is absolutely essential that government models the behaviour and celebrate the diversity of this nation.”

He said that it was also humbling to see young people addressing key issues through the Arts at the third National Social Cohesion Day on Thursday. He explained that the promotion of social cohesion is extremely important since it helps with good governance and goes towards the economy, productivity, mitigating and combating violent extremisms and helps to secure a safe, secure and sustainable environment for all.

Khan also highlighted the progress made to link the coastland and the hinterland, which allowed for the provision of more access to key services to the residents in remote areas. He also remarked on the importance placed on providing access to Information Communication Technology (ICT) to all Guyanese and plans to provide a platform for an entrepreneurial environment for the youths.

He also commended the administration for leading the country down a ‘green economy’ path and its preparation for the emerging oil and gas sector.

Secretary-General Akbar Khan’s visit is a follow-up to one made in 2016 when he conducted a post-election seminar. During this visit, he will be observing the functions of the National Assembly.

He has since met and had discussions with President David Granger, government officials, the Speaker of the National Assembly and other key stakeholders. He will also be meeting with Prime Minister Moses Nagamootoo and the Guyana Elections Commission (GECOM).

The CPA’s mandate is to promote the advancement of parliamentary democracy by enhancing knowledge and understanding of democratic governance.

By: Synieka Thorne.| DPI