On Wednesday, 22 July 2026, the international community has united to express condolences and stand in solidarity with Guyana following the tragic sinking of the passenger ferry MV Barima, which has left at least 57 people dead and 46 others still unaccounted for at sea.
U.S. Deputy Secretary of State Christopher Landau was among the first global officials to issue a public statement of mourning, sharing his remarks via X, the platform formerly known as Twitter. Landau extended his most sincere condolences to both the government and people of Guyana in the wake of the devastating maritime accident. “We in the U.S. share in your loss and mourning. May God bless those who lost their lives, the survivors, and their families and friends,” he wrote. The U.S. Embassy in Guyana followed with a separate statement, echoing the deep sadness felt across the U.S. and highlighting respect for rescue workers who responded to the emergency overnight. “We honor the courage of every rescuer who answered the call in the dark hours of the night and who continue their mission today. We pray for the safe recovery of all those still missing,” the embassy said.
France moved quickly to provide tangible support to search and rescue efforts, deploying a specialized team of 15 personnel – including military divers and experienced rescue specialists – from French Guiana on 20 July, in full coordination with the Guyanese government and Guyana Defence Force. In a statement, France reaffirmed its longstanding solidarity with regional partners and neighbors across the Caribbean, West Indies, and the Guyana Shield region.
China has also signaled its willingness to provide support, announcing it is closely monitoring ongoing search operations in a formal embassy statement. “We express deep condolences over the loss of lives, and convey heartfelt concern to the passengers and crew members affected by the accident, as well as their families,” the statement read. “At this difficult time, the Chinese people stand in solidarity with the Guyanese people. China stands ready to provide Guyana with assistance within its capacity.”
The Delegation of the European Union to Guyana, joined by representatives of EU member states accredited to the South American nation, announced it would join Guyana’s three-day national period of mourning that began 22 July. “Our hearts go out to those who have lost family, friends, and community members in this devastating incident. We stand in solidarity and we extend our deepest sympathy to them and the people of Guyana during this difficult time,” the delegation said. The bloc also commended ongoing search efforts, specifically highlighting France’s on-the-ground support, and confirmed the EU remains ready to provide further assistance if requested.
Canada and the United Kingdom also issued formal statements of condolence. “We are deeply saddened by the news of the capsizing of the MV Barima. Our thoughts are with all those affected, including the passengers and crew, and their families and loved ones,” Canada’s statement read. The UK High Commission to Guyana commended the tireless work of first responders involved in the recovery operation. “We recognise and commend the dedication and courage of the emergency services, maritime authorities and all those involved in the ongoing search and rescue efforts. The UK stands with Guyana at this difficult time,” the commission said.
Regional bloc the Caribbean Community (CARICOM) also shared a statement of support, noting the ferry capsized off Guyana’s Atlantic coast near the mouth of the Pomeroon River. “The Community continues to closely follow the ongoing search and rescue operation to account for the passengers and crew. We extend our prayers and support to the families anxiously awaiting news of their loved ones,” CARICOM said. The organization paid special tribute to rescue teams, including Guyanese government agencies and private vessel operators who mobilized immediately in challenging overnight conditions to save lives. “CARICOM stands in solidarity with the Government and people of Guyana, in particular, the families and communities that are being impacted by this unfolding disaster,” the statement concluded.