Roraima Airways, Cuba delegation explore cooperation in air transport, tourism

A recent meeting between officials of Roraima Airways and a Cuban delegation has seen a range of issues, including direct air transport between Havana and Georgetown and collaboration in tourism being discussed and initiatives identified to move the process forward.
The three-member Cuban delegation led by Director of International Relations of Cuba’s Chamber of Commerce, Dr Celia Labora Rodriguez, was here for the inaugural Guyana Trade and Investment Exhibition (GUYTIE).
Dr Rodriguez indicated her Chamber’s interest in further developing commercial ties with Guyana, pointing out that there are several opportunities that would be of benefit to the business communities of both nations.
Meanwhile, Chief Executive Officer of Roraima, Captain Gerry Gouveia, pointed to the critical importance of efficient logistics, including air transportation for both passengers and cargo. He drew attention to daily flights by Aruba Airlines to Guyana from Cuba which bring hundreds of Cubans to the country each week, mainly for shopping.
Gouveia said the introduction of some non-stop flights between the two destinations would not only boost passenger travel but provide for the movement of cargo, especially item such as pharmaceuticals which require quick transport so as to avoid spoilage.
Both Gouveia and Dr Rodriguez indicated that applications for operating permits for Aruba Airlines to introduce some non-stop flights are currently under consideration by civil aviation authorities in both Guyana and Cuba and are optimistic that approvals will soon be granted. Talks in this connection have been undertaken over the past two weeks.
The two teams also discussed initiatives for the promotion of tourism packages in both destinations. In fact, the two are to exchange information and promotional material which will be shared with tour operators.
Furthermore, discussions were also centred on Guyana’s participation in next month’s Havana International Trade and Investment Fair (FIHAV) and the role Aruba Air could play in facilitating the movement of passengers and exhibits to Cuba.
The delegation thanked Roraima and Aruba Air for assisting in their travel to Guyana for GUYTIE 2018.