GEORGETOWN, Guyana (CMC) — United States soldiers Monday began a training exercise with members of the Guyana Defence Force (GDF), which Washington said is to increase readiness by integrating at the tactical and operational levels.

A statement by the US Embassy here said the team from the United States Army 1st Security Force Assistance Brigade (SFAB) is a specialised unit of the US Army established to advise and assist partner nations.

“It is renowned for its proficiency in training, advising, assisting, and enabling foreign security forces,” the embassy said, adding that “the exercise will involve strategic planning sessions and processes to enhance both countries’ military readiness and capabilities to respond to various security threats”.

The embassy said that both the US and Guyana’s defence forces will share expertise, tactics, and strategies — ensuring that lessons learned are mutually beneficial.

“The 1st SFAB’s rotation in Guyana shows our commitment to our regional partners,” said Major Gabriela S Thompson, US Army South spokesperson, adding, “The US and Guyana have a long-standing, transparent history of supporting each other in response to common security challenges and threats in the hemisphere.”

The embassy said joint readiness allows regional partners to respond to contingencies and conduct security cooperation operations to strengthen regional security and counter transnational threats.

“The United States has an enduring promise and commitment to the strengthening of partnerships, training of security and defence forces, and respect for human and fundamental rights,” it added.