Russia-Guyana Diplomatic Relations Mark 55 Years

Moscow, December 17. Today marks the 55th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between Russia and the South American nation of Guyana. The ties, originally established between the Soviet Union and Guyana on December 17, 1970, were formally continued by the Russian Federation in 1992.

In a congratulatory message issued on this occasion, the Russian Foreign Ministry emphasized that the traditionally friendly relations between the two countries are based not only on historical connections but also on personal bonds. Many Guyanese citizens, including current senior officials, received their education at Soviet and Russian universities.

Educational cooperation and student exchanges remain a central pillar of the relationship. Since 2003, the People’s Friendship University of Russia and the University of Guyana have implemented a cooperation agreement. Under quotas allocated by the Russian government, Guyanese youth continue to study in Russia tuition-free.

The two countries are actively working to strengthen collaboration in agriculture, healthcare, culture, humanitarian ties, and sister-city partnerships. Guyana has expressed interest in modern Russian technologies for wheat and crop production, drinking water quality improvement, healthcare, and the oil and gas sector.

A notable example of successful bilateral cooperation was in July 2021, when Guyana’s active role within the Caribbean Community (CARICOM) contributed to member states (except Trinidad and Tobago) recognizing the Russian Sputnik V COVID-19 vaccine for both vaccination and travel purposes.

Russia and Guyana share a common stance on maintaining the region as a zone of peace and resolving emerging disputes peacefully in accordance with international law. Russia extended warm congratulations to its Guyanese counterparts and the people of Guyana on this shared milestone and expressed wishes for the continued strengthening of bilateral relations.