You cannot 'form stronger relationships with the region' with visas- Premier
The Premier was at the time speaking during a press conference on March 1, 2024, on the recently concluded 46th Regular Heads of Government meeting of Caricom where he announced that the removal of visa restrictions for Guyana is now in an advanced stage with the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) pending.
“I mean obviously, we have lots of Caribbean nationals here who are not subject to visas. You know, if you want to strengthen economic cooperation between yourself and another state, you don't do that by having visas in place. That would restrict travel for tourism purposes, for instance,” he said.
The Premier added that the removal of visa restrictions will make it easier for day-to-day and week-to-week travel for nationals of regional countries who may be coming to do business or maybe coming for other purposes to the VI.
“I believe Caricom is moving towards reducing the restrictions to travel among Member States and as Associate Member States of Caricom, you know we have to be realistic. If you want to form stronger relationships with the region, you cannot do that with visas,” he said.
He said; however, that while persons in the Virgin Islands have very strong opinions and views about persons who travel from other places, the future of the VI is tied to this region. “We're going to have to start adjusting our minds to the fact that you know…. We have tremendous potential in the region and if the region is going to develop, we shouldn't be left behind,” he added.
Visas for Jamaica & Dominican Republic
While there is a focus on removing restrictions for Guyana, which has few visa denials and continues to be a regional powerhouse for business development, Dr Whealtey said he is yet to look closely at other situations like Jamaica or the Dominican Republic.
“Presently a part of Caricom, I know we have visas on them and I want to strengthen the economic relationship within the Dominican Republic, to be quite frank with you. So I think we should look at all of the situations where we currently have visa restrictions and see if they're still appropriate for what it is we're trying to achieve,” he detailed.
He reiterated that if the VI wants to strengthen economic ties, for instance with Jamaica or the Dominican Republic, a look at removing visa restrictions is something the VI can’t afford to not look at.
“The visas were put there for a particular purpose, so before saying yes or no, I have to really examine the specific situation and whether the purpose for which it was put in place still needs to be maintained,” Dr Wheatley underscored.
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30 Responses to “You cannot 'form stronger relationships with the region' with visas- Premier”
That's a load of bolony. The US alone have over 30+ categories of visas. The BVI cannot afford to be so slack with immigration and entry for business or pleasure. People have to respect this country Mr.Premier.
You ain't give this serious consideration? You ain't fixed the ten year residency, you opening the flood gates? I want my apartments rent, but not in this fashion. Willard Wheatley in his grave pulling up his pants higher on his stomach over him.
Let hope none of you has any tithes anywhere else
Can't compare a little full stop with great America!
Visa / not ,still not stopping either citizens from traveling to BVI once they got visa granted still have a good portion of both !
Guess what Great American giving visa than before !
They the owner of the US dollars you all spending and hello
More opportunities and lot of resources what you all lacking !
So all these hate comments not need check you all selves!
BVİ needs to üüise up.