News Americas, New York, NY, March 27, 2025: U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio today praised Guyana as one of the most exciting places in the world right now, citing its transformational economic opportunities and strategic importance to the United States during a high-level meeting in Georgetown with President Irfaan Ali.

Guyanese President Mohamed Irfaan Ali (C) and US Secretary of State Marco Rubio walk as they meet, in Georgetown, Guyana, on March 27, 2025. President Ali said March 27 that Secretary Rubio promised US support for his oil-rich South American nation’s sovereignty in the face of threats from neighboring Venezuela. (Photo by NATHAN HOWARD/POOL/AFP via Getty Images)

Welcoming Rubio, President Ali commended him as “one of our strongest voices in the U.S.,” noting Rubio’s longstanding advocacy on issues crucial to Guyana, including democracy, security, and peace.

“You’ve always kept what is relevant to Guyana at the forefront – your voice is well-known, respected, and very loud,” Ali said with a smile, jokingly adding they had hoped to host him as a senator, “but we have you as Secretary of State – and in a very important role.”

US Secretary of State Marco Rubio (2nd L) meets with Guyanese President Mohamed Irfaan Ali (R) in Georgetown, Guyana, on March 27, 2025. President Ali said March 27 that Secretary Rubio promised US support for his oil-rich South American nation’s sovereignty in the face of threats from neighboring Venezuela. (Photo by NATHAN HOWARD/POOL/AFP via Getty Images)

Rubio, who was sworn in just nine weeks ago, underscored the significance of Guyana as a vital partner in the region. “There is no other place with the kind of horizons you have over the next five to ten years,” he said. “We’re neighbors, we’ll always be neighbors, and we want to build on that partnership in a way that’s mutually beneficial.”

Rubio reaffirmed the U.S.’ commitment to supporting Guyana’s sovereignty and territorial integrity amid recent tensions, emphasizing that American companies stand ready to invest in alignment with Guyana’s laws and long-term vision.

“We want your country to be safe, secure, and prosperous for all your citizens… and to serve as an example,” Rubio stated. “The stronger you are, the stronger we are.”

The Secretary of State also acknowledged the growing U.S. cabinet-level interest in the South American nation, saying, “There’s an increasing team of us in the President’s cabinet who are excited about all the opportunities we have together.”

Rubio’s visit marks his first official trip to Guyana in his new role, reinforcing a deepening U.S.-Guyana alliance amid the country’s historic oil boom and expanding role on the global stage.