Georgetown: CONVIASA, Venezuela's national air carrier has begun operations between Caracas ( Port Ordas)and Georgetown.
The inaugural flight arrived yesterday at the Cheddi Jagan International Airport and was welcomed by Minister of Public Works , Robeson Benn, the CEO of CJIA, Mr. Ramesh Ghir, Director of the Guyana Tourism Authority, Mr. Indranauth Haralsingh and dignitaries from the Venezuelan Embassy.
Minister Benn, in his remarks said that the occasion was exciting and was made possible due to negotiations between the two Presidents of Guyana and Venezuela in August 2013, when an MOU was signed.
He reminded the realization of the partnership was achieved in a short time, which was testimony of what can be done if partnership and cooperation remain paramount in all relations between the two countries.
More importantly,Minister Benn announced that Conviasa's entrance into the Guyana market is a "leap forward" in the way we relate to neighboring countries and in mapping new routes and accessing South America.
"What will spring up from this is a strengthening of economic ties, business, tourism and cultural exchanges between the two countries that will benefit all," Minister Benn explained.
In closing he assured that every effort will be made to ensure the partnership is sustainable and every experience will have a lasting positive impression.
The GTA Director, who spoke on behalf of the Tourism Minister, Irfaan Ali, noted that the airline is a perfect fit for Guyana, and that we anticipate a quadrupling of the figures and boost other arrivals from South America.
"This is an indication of the confidence in the market as our arrivals continue to increase, this will also add to the growing figure" he said.
Haralsingh said too that the timing is perfect as we celebrate Tourism Awareness Month and it coincides with National Geographic ranking of Guyana among the top 21 Destinations to visit in a lifetime.
He continued, " We look forward to closer collaboration as we foster healthy air traffic between the two countries."
Meanwhile the CEO of the CJIA, Ramesh Ghir welcomed the " prestigious airline and acknowledged the Venezuelan Flag carrier is indeed one of the largest airlines operating out domestically and internationally.
He stressed that this adds to the strategy of CJIA becoming a next generation hub, and attracting new services
He assured of the commitment and cooperation and pledged that steps will be taken to ensure that flights will be processed in a timely fashion.
"This is a great achievement for bilateral relations and improving transport and enriching ties between the two countries," Ghir stated.
President of the airline, Mr. Luis Carabello thanked all representatives from the two countries especially President of Venezuela Nicolas Maduro , and President of Guyana, His Excellency Donald Ramotar.
He said too that the occasion was the realization of a commitment between the two nations.
The airline will begin operations with one flight weekly and according to the President, this will be expanded to twice weekly.
" We are ready to give our best service on behalf of Venezuela and CONVIASA." he said.
The Chairman if CJIA ,Mr. Ramesh Dookhoo also attested to the economic and social impact the operations of the air carrier will have.
You must be logged in to post a comment.