– Guyana lauded for int’l diplomacy in elevating C’bean voice
The British Virgin Islands (BVI) will remove visa restrictions for Guyanese to travel to the islands, becoming the latest in a series of countries that have relaxed travel requirements for Guyanese as the country has grown in both regional and international influence.
The announcement was made by the Premier of the BVI, Natalio Wheatley, on Monday. During a press conference, Wheatley revealed that not only would visa restrictions be removed for Guyanese looking to travel to his country, but that talks were ongoing towards signing a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Guyana.
“(The MOU) was passed in cabinet some weeks ago, for us to have a memorandum of understanding with Guyana, focusing on a number of areas, trade and investment, immigration, and perhaps agriculture and some other areas.”
“So, we had to seek permission from the United Kingdom (UK) Government, the Secretary of State, that’s consistent with our constitution. And now we’re engaging with officials from Guyana and putting together this MoU,” he explained.
Wheatley was however hopeful that they could conclude the MoU within six months. Additionally, Wheatley could not say exactly when the visa free travel would take effect, though he noted that cabinet approval has already been granted for this.
Wheatley went on to laud the work being done by Guyana at the international level, to elevate the Caribbean’s voice. In particular, Guyana’s role at the United Nations Security Council (UNSC) and its efforts to pursue sustainable growth were recognised by the Premier.
“As a CARICOM member and emerging global power, Guyana has become a model for sustainable growth and international diplomacy. Guyana’s election to the United Nations Security Council places it in a pivotal position to address the global policies on peace and security.”
“(This is) an accomplishment that elevates the Caribbean’s voice on the global stage. Guyana has also become a focal point for global investment driven by its significant oil reserves and growing non-oil sector for example,” Wheatley said.
The Premier also pointed out that several developed countries from around the world have been pursuing investments in Guyana. He noted that Guyana is considered a key partner by the BVI, owing to its groundbreaking development.
