Georgetown, GINA, February 6, 2004

The excellent relations enjoyed by the US and Guyana was highlighted this morning when representatives of the two countries signed a Memorandum of Understanding on deportation procedures.
According to US Ambassador Roland Bullen, the two countries enjoy very cordial relations and this is exemplified by the MOU that was signed today and agreements that were signed in the past.
The Ambassador also made it clear that Guyana’s Minister of Foreign Trade and International Cooperation Clement Rohee has not been denied a US visa.
He explained that certain categories of visas have to be approved by Washington and Minister Rohee was one such case. The Ambassador further pointed out that this is the practice in other countries.
This point was reiterated by the Head of Consular Division of the US Embassy in Guyana, Mr. David Shenstead, who added that Minister Rohee was not found ineligible for a visa.
There have been widespread speculation, fueled by media reports, on why the Minister was not granted a visa.
Until word on the Minister’s visa application is received from Washington, the application could be said to be under consideration.