Haiti discussions at CARICOM meeting fruitful

Ease in visa requirements from Haiti to Barbados.

PARAMARIBO, Suriname, Monday March 12, 2012 – Barbados is now the 10th CARICOM member state to sign a visa waiver agreement with Haiti, allowing business people from that country and diplomats to visit the country without a visa.

The document was signed by Barbados Foreign Minister, Maxine McClean, while Haiti’s Special Envoy to CARICOM, John Alexis signed on behalf of Port-au-Prince.

St. Kitts and Nevis Prime Minister, Dr. Denzil Douglas said all CARICOM countries had given their commitment to allowing Haitian businessmen to move within the community freely without hindrance. He added those countries who have not yet signed the agreement were now expected to set a date to do so.

The move is expected to result in an increased trade and economic cooperation which could help rebuild the earthquake-ravaged country by growing its economy.

Speaking during the session, Suriname’s Foreign Minister, Winston Lackin added that the visa waiver agreements was part of the effort to assist Haiti in its rebuilding efforts and to allow the free movement of diplomats and business executives who hold American or Schengen visas.

During the 23rd inter-sessional meeting, the CARICOM member states made a case for the continued support for Haiti through advocacy. Click here to receive free news bulletins via email from Caribbean360. (View sample)