GCCI pays courtesy call on the U.S. Ambassador to the Co-operative Republic of Guyana, Her Excellency Sarah-Ann Lynch
On April 17, 2023, the Executive Management Committee of the Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GCCI), paid a courtesy visit to the US Embassy. In the meeting, the President of the Chamber; Mr. Kester Hutson and the United States Ambassador to Guyana; Her Excellency Sarah-Ann Lynch, both expressed the importance of digitization for both business and governmental services.
Leaning on his background in Information and Communication Technologies (ICT), Mr. Hutson emphasized the need for frequent engagement with members of the business community to encourage them in this regard and to initiate this discussion with the government from a policy level. Recognizing that the culture of ICT in Guyana must change, the President emphasized his commitment to this goal.
The Ambassador highlighted that one of the hindrances in encouraging US businesses to invest in the Guyana Market is the lack of digitized operations and businesses. She also noted that the Chamber has an important role to play in promoting the digitization of operations and services.
In response, the President recognized this as an opportunity for foreign companies to partner with local companies to help craft the system that is required. He suggested that the business development forum, which is hosted by the GCCI, is a good way to introduce US and other foreign companies to Guyana.
The meeting concluded with a decision to establish a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between the Chamber and the US Embassy to establish a working relationship. This meeting highlights the commitment of both GCCI and the Embassy to work towards creating a more digitized future and promoting stronger ties between the two countries.
The US Embassy in Guyana also noted that the issuance of visas is now in a good place and asked that the Chamber encourage its members to apply for visas. In case there are any issues with travel, the consulate is willing to assist.
Also present were Ms. Kathy Smith; Secretary, GCCI and Mr. Gavin Ramsoondar; Junior Vice President, GCCI, Mr.Thomas F.Seeger; Economic/Commercial Officer, US Embassy, Mr. Richard G. Leo; Economic and Commercial Specialist, US Embassy and Ms. Adrienne Galanek; Deputy Cheif of Mission, US Embassy.
