President notes that Guyana/Antigua moves into new sphere of integration through MoU signing

The new agreement between Guyana and Antigua and Barbuda now moves the countries closer together, building on decades of already strong bilateral relations, according to President Irfaan Ali. “This expansion of our relations now moves us into a new sphere of economic integration and infrastructure integration,” Ali said.

It was revealed that the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU), signed last evening by President Ali and Antigua and Barbuda Prime Minister, Gaston Browne, provides for economic cooperation in eight areas, including tourism, financial services, agriculture, energy and air transportation. President Ali said that given the new dynamics surrounding food security and transportation, deliberations in this regard are of “immense importance” and can have a very positive impact on the agriculture sector.

Regarding energy, Ali noted that the two sides will also examine how they can further strengthen cooperation in ensuring energy security and that the assets in all countries are optimally utilised for the economic and social benefits of their people. The President expressed optimism that the new approach and the enhanced cooperation will go a long way to “short-circuit the bureaucracy”. Ali went disclosed further the benefits to the tourism and financial sectors of both countries.

“I am very pleased that we were able to conclude this MoU and we will be working diligently with the technical team from the Foreign Affairs Ministry and relevant sectors, in accelerating low-hanging fruits; things that can be achieved in the short to medium term and the long-term initiatives so that we can move this forward,” President Ali explained. Prime Minister Browne congratulated President Ali for his exemplary leadership in the region in bringing together all stakeholders to address the critical issue of food security.

PM Browne reminded that Guyana and Antigua have been at the forefront of the integration movement and have enjoyed close bilateral relationships over the years. The Antigua and Barbuda Prime Minister revealed that the new cooperation agreement which the two countries are pursuing will create even more opportunities including increased investments and trade.

He declared that the agreement, will help to strengthen the countries’ bilateral relationship and enhance their collective contribution to the integration movement. It was revealed that PM Browne and a number of CARICOM Heads of Government are in Guyana for the inaugural Agri Investment Forum and Expo.