Cooperation in tourism, aviation and maritime discussed with China

Various areas under the purview of the Ministry of Tourism and International Transport were discussed during a courtesy call between Minister Ian Gooding-Edghill and the People’s Republic of China’s Ambassador to Barbados, Zheng Bingkai.

The meeting, which took place this morning at the ministry’s One Barbados Place, Warrens location, discussed ongoing and future collaborations in tourism and international transportation, with priority in the areas of technical assistance and training in aviation and maritime.

After extending a warm welcome to the ambassador and his delegation, Minister Gooding-Edghill noted Barbados’ longstanding relationship with China, one of its key development partners, and thanked that country for its assistance and support over the past 48 years.

The two officials also discussed areas relating to increasing tourist arrivals from China; an Air Services Agreement, data analytics; infrastructure development at Barbados’ air and seaports, and electric buses.
The minister stated that he looked forward to continuing dialogue on matters of mutual interest, and ways to increase tourist arrivals from China.

Ambassador Zheng proffered that the portfolio of tourism and international transportation was “one of the most critical” ministries in terms of the economy, and commended its efforts to date.
He indicated his government’s commitment to continuing cooperation and support for matters of mutual interest between China and Barbados.

Barbados and China established diplomatic relations on May 30, 1977.

(BGIS)