Guyana has reached another significant milestone on the regional stage, having been elected to chair the Association of Caribbean States (ACS) Special Committee on Transport for the first time in the country’s history.
The appointment was confirmed at the 31st Extraordinary Session of the ACS Ministerial Council, held on 21 June 2026. The achievement highlights Guyana’s growing influence in regional transport and aviation and reinforces its commitment to strengthening collaboration across the Caribbean.
Dr. Saheed Sulaman, Deputy Director General of the Guyana Civil Aviation Authority (GCAA), will lead the committee for the 2026–2027 term. His appointment places Guyana at the forefront of efforts to improve regional transport connectivity and cooperation.
Founded in 1994, the Association of Caribbean States (ACS) is an intergovernmental organisation comprising 25 member states and 10 associate members. The organisation focuses on advancing regional integration, sustainable development, economic cooperation, and stronger transport links across the Greater Caribbean.
Guyana’s election to this leadership position reflects the country’s growing reputation in aviation and transport. It also supports President Dr. Mohamed Irfaan Ali’s long-term vision to transform Guyana into a regional aviation hub by improving connectivity and expanding international partnerships.
The accomplishment also underscores the leadership of the Minister of Public Utilities and Aviation, Deodat Indar, whose efforts to strengthen Guyana’s presence in regional and global aviation forums have contributed to this achievement.
Dr. Sulaman brings nearly 20 years of aviation expertise to the role. Throughout his career, he has negotiated more than 50 Air Services Agreements across five continents, covering over 75 countries. He has also served for over 15 years on the CARICOM Technical Negotiating Team on Air Services, previously held the position of Vice Chairman of the ACS Special Committee on Transport between 2022 and 2023, and was named an ICAO Global Ambassador in December 2025.
Reacting to the appointment, Lt. Col. (Ret’d) Egbert Field, Director General of the Guyana Civil Aviation Authority and Chairman of the Caribbean Aviation Safety and Security Oversight System (CASSOS), described the election as a proud moment for Guyana and the GCAA.
He noted that the appointment reflects the confidence regional partners have in Guyana’s technical capabilities, leadership, and commitment to regional integration. Field expressed confidence that Dr Sulaman’s collaborative leadership style would strengthen partnerships, promote practical transport solutions, and help create a more connected, resilient, and sustainable Caribbean transport network.
As Chair of the Special Committee on Transport, Dr Sulaman will oversee initiatives to improve regional transport systems, enhance connectivity among member states, promote sustainable transport solutions, and encourage greater cooperation to support economic growth and social development across the Greater Caribbean.