Retired GDF Chief of Staff Dr. Gary Best has called for an increase in Guyana’s defense budget following a Venezuelan military vessel incursion. He emphasized the need for better military preparedness alongside diplomatic efforts, advocating for a shift of resources from other budget areas to enhance national security. The Guyanese government considers Venezuelan actions provocative, threatening both national peace and regional stability.
Dr. Gary Best, the retired Chief of Staff of the Guyana Defence Force, emphasized the need for increased budget allocations for national defense amid ongoing Venezuelan aggression. Following a recent incident where a Venezuelan military vessel intruded into Guyanese waters, Dr. Best stated that Guyana must invest more resources in military capabilities to effectively respond to such threats instead of relying solely on diplomatic measures.
He noted that less than 5% of the national budget is currently designated for defense, which is inadequate for ensuring national security. Dr. Best argued that the Defence Force requires modernization to sustain a defensive posture against Venezuela temporarily, emphasizing the importance of both active military capability and diplomatic efforts.
During the recent incursion, a Venezuelan Coast Guard vessel spent over five hours interrogating oil vessel captains, falsely claiming they were in Venezuelan waters. In response, Guyana has lodged an official protest with Venezuela and alerted the international community about the act of aggression, which is part of Venezuela’s ongoing claims to Guyana’s Essequibo region.
Moreover, Dr. Best urged for a more serious government approach regarding the Venezuelan threats and suggested reallocating budget resources. He proposed that reducing infrastructure budgets could free up funding necessary for enhancing defense spending, without significantly impacting other sectors.
The Guyana Government has condemned Venezuela’s actions as provocations that threaten the peace and security of Guyana and the broader Latin American and Caribbean region. The administration asserted its commitment to maintaining territorial integrity against Venezuelan encroachments, which pose ongoing challenges.
In conclusion, Dr. Gary Best’s remarks underscore the urgent need for Guyana to enhance its military capabilities in light of Venezuelan threats. His call for a larger defense budget reflects concerns over national security and the importance of balancing diplomatic measures with military preparedness. The government’s actions in response to recent incursions highlight its commitment to protecting Guyana’s sovereignty and stability in the region.
Original Source: newssourcegy.com
