Chinese Embassy rejects U.S. official’s criticism of Guyana projects

The Chinese Embassy in Georgetown has pushed back against criticism from Juan Pablo Segura, U.S. Assistant Secretary of State for Western Hemisphere Affairs, over projects undertaken by Chinese companies in Guyana.

Segura recently cited the Cheddi Jagan International Airport expansion while criticising the performance of Chinese state-owned companies across Latin America and the Caribbean. He said the Guyana airport project experienced more than a decade of delays and cost overruns.

Responding, the Chinese Embassy accused the US official of misrepresenting China-Guyana economic cooperation and politically targeting Chinese companies.

The Embassy defended China's development record in Guyana, pointing to projects including the Bharrat Jagdeo Demerara River Bridge, the China-Guyana Friendship Joe Vieira Park and six regional hospitals.

It said Chinese investments have contributed to infrastructure development, employment and Guyana’s wider economic and social progress.

The Embassy also maintained that Guyana and other Caribbean and Latin American states have the right to choose their development partners without external interference.

China, it added, intends to continue expanding practical cooperation with Guyana and delivering projects that benefit both countries.