The government of Barbados has entered in partnership with the State of Qatar under an Air Services Agreement to enhance the aviation sector. The signing ceremony took place between the two nations during the visit of the Barbados delegation to Doha, Qatar, on Sunday, 13 October.
The Air Services Agreement was signed by Mohamed Faleh Alhajri, the President of Qatar Civil Aviation Authority, representing his nation, and Ian Gooding Edghill, the Minister of Tourism and International Transport, representing the government of Barbados.
The collaboration of Barbados and Qatar under the Air Services Agreement is said to be part of the government’s initiative to promote air connectivity in the Caribbean region on a greater level. Minister Gooding Edghill mentioned that this step is taken following the vision of Prime Minister Mia Amor Mottley.
Minister Ian Gooding Edghill also marked this agreement as a way of building diplomatic ties in the Middle East while expanding international cooperation. He said, “This Air Services Agreement marks a significant step towards deepening ties between Barbados and Qatar.”
Gooding Edghill continued, “It is setting a foundation to enhance collaboration in the aviation sector while exploring and creating new opportunities to expand air connectivity between our regions.” He also talked about international aviation and other aspects related to it.
Minister Gooding Edghill highlighted how Qatar came as a partner for Barbados in exploring its aviation sector. Both nations have shared strong diplomatic tie-ups since 2007 and have worked together on multiple subjects of mutual interest.
Along with this, Qatar has a strong presence in the international aviation industry. It is home to one of the internationally popular and largest airlines, Qatar Airways, and also manages one of the world’s busiest airports. With years of domination in the sector, Qatar has developed sophisticated aviation technology.
Under the Air Services Agreement, the designated airlines of Barbados and Qatar will get multiple benefits. The airlines will be able to operate their flights without any directional and geographical limitations.
Other than enhancing the diplomatic relationship of both nations, this agreement is also expected to bring cooperation in several other sectors. It is expected that this initiative will lead to an impact on the tourism industry in a positive manner.
It will also affect the trade sector with new opportunities for investment, which will ultimately guide the nation to better economic growth. The minister expressed that this collaboration can also open the paths of cooperation in education and scholarships. However, the prime objective of the Air Services Agreement is capacity-building and technical assistance in the aviation sector.
