Georgetown, Guyana – Prime Minister Brigadier (Ret’d) Mark Phillips has emphasised that small countries must strengthen their influence on the international stage through multilateralism, strategic partnerships and informed decision-making as the global balance of power continues to shift.
Speaking at the inaugural lecture of the National Defence Institute (NDI) on Thursday, the Prime Minister said Guyana’s rapid economic growth and expanding petroleum revenues have increased the country’s importance internationally, but greater economic resources do not automatically translate into greater influence among major global powers.
“Today, Guyana is prosperous in this hemisphere. Yes, there is a lot of revenue,” Phillips noted, while cautioning that the growing importance of a small nation does not necessarily mean it will have greater influence in international affairs.
The lecture, titled “Big Powers, Small States in the Evolving World Order,” was held at the Colonel Administration and Quartering Conference Room at Base Camp Ayanganna.
Multilateralism Essential for Protecting National Interests
Prime Minister Phillips underscored the importance of multilateralism as a vital platform through which smaller nations can advance their interests, protect their sovereignty and pursue sustainable development.
He explained that countries with smaller populations and economies must work collectively, build strategic relationships and participate actively in international institutions to ensure their voices are heard in global decision-making.
The Prime Minister also highlighted the close connection between national defence and broader development priorities, including energy security, food security and climate security.
He said these areas must remain central to Guyana’s development agenda as the country assumes greater economic and geopolitical responsibilities.
National Defence Institute to Strengthen Strategic Thinking
Phillips explained that the establishment of the National Defence Institute reflects the Government’s commitment to strengthening research, scholarship and strategic thinking.
He noted that national development must be supported by investments in defence and security, alongside improvements in the social and economic sectors.
Chief of Defence Staff Brigadier Omar Khan also highlighted the institute’s role in bringing together military personnel, government officials, academics and private-sector representatives to examine issues affecting national security and development.
He said the institute’s lecture series would encourage greater awareness, collaboration and informed discussions on emerging challenges.
Professor Calls for Broader International Partnerships
The inaugural lecture was delivered by Professor Amitav Acharya, who examined three major themes: the changing nature of the global order, rivalry among major powers and the role of small states in an increasingly complex international environment.
Professor Acharya encouraged countries such as Guyana to develop partnerships across different areas of mutual interest rather than becoming overly dependent on any single global power.
He highlighted the importance of maintaining diverse international relationships as smaller countries navigate shifting geopolitical dynamics and emerging global challenges.
Building Guyana’s Capacity to Navigate Global Challenges
The inaugural lecture forms part of the National Defence Institute’s broader efforts to promote strategic dialogue, advance research and strengthen Guyana’s capacity to understand and respond to national, regional and international security challenges.
The discussions also highlighted the importance of ensuring that Guyana’s growing economic strength is matched by sound strategic planning, strong international partnerships and effective participation in global affairs.