BARBADOS | Barbados,Rwanda sign airlift agreement in margins of 5-day Economic Forum

BRIDGETOWN, Barbados, August 4, 2023 - Barbados and Rwanda have signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) aimed at bolstering the relationship between the two countries in the areas of heritage and sports tourism, and developing critical airlift between both countries.

The signing took place today at the Hilton Resort Barbados, on the sidelines of the morning session of the Business Mission – Rwanda to Barbados “Strengthening Economic and Cultural Ties,”being held at the Hilton Resort Barbados, from August 3 to 8.

Minister of Tourism and International Transport, Ian Gooding-Edghill, and Rwanda’s Minister of State in Charge of the East African Community at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, Professor Nshuti Manasseh, explained that the MOU would not be just a formality but one that would be actioned for the betterment of both countries.

Mr. Gooding-Edghill said he was happy to concretise the development of a relationship in sports and heritage tourism as well as for airlift.

“This is the commencement of what we believe will be a long-standing relationship…. You have our commitment that the Government of Barbados and certainly that of the Ministry of Tourism and International Transport, that we will do whatever we have to do behind the scenes to ensure that this is not only a signed document, but this is a working document that will bring mutual benefits to both countries. You have our word on that,” the Tourism Minister stated.

From left to right – Deputy Chief Executive Officer, Rwanda Development Board, Nelly Mukazayire; Rwanda’s Minister of State in Charge of the East African Community, Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, Professor Nshuti Manasseh; Minister of Tourism and International Transport, Ian Gooding-Edghill; and Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Tourism and International Transport, Francine Blackman, pose for a photograph following the signing of the MOU. (S. Forde-Carigg/BGIS)

He added that the crucial step of establishing air links will serve as a bridge to unite the people of both countries. 

 “Tourism has the power to transcend boundaries; promote mutual understanding; and uplift both our economies for the greater good of our people, in keeping with the ‘South-South’ ethos; we are stronger together,” he stated.

Professor Manasseh, speaking about the signing, stressed: “I think what’s important is not simply signing the document.  It’s how we implement what is in the document. And for us in Rwanda, that’s what’s important.

“We … cherish relationships, and when we start relationships we lead for good, for the good of our people and of course for the good of the host country’s needs, in this case, Barbados. And you definitely will not find a failing friend; you’re going to find a friend in Rwanda.  We mean what we say and we say what we mean.”

He added that Rwanda and Barbados are small countries but not weak countries. “Our economies are doing very well.  But we need to work together to be better, and for countries of our size, it’s always important to make sure that you reach out to others. And of course, Barbados became a natural choice for Rwanda, mainly because of relations between our two heads of state,” he said.

The Minister encouraged participants of the forum to take advantage of the facial interaction, thereby explaining objectives; sharing best practices; and exchanging knowledge, ideas, expertise and resources, with the aim of driving both economies forward and bringing prosperity to communities while enhancing the lives of citizens.

Meanwhile, Rwanda’s Minister of State in Charge of the East African Community at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, Professor Nshuti Manasseh, noted that the forum would help to establish partnerships for economic growth between Rwanda and Barbados.

With respect to the area of tourism, Professor Manasseh said: “The natural beauty of Barbados, paired with the hospitality of your people has positioned Barbados as a highly sought-after destination for global travellers.  Recognising the significance of tourism in driving economic growth, Rwanda is eager to explore the potential, meaningful collaboration in this realm.”

He noted that both countries are endowed with unique landscapes, rich cultural heritage, and resilient people known for their warmth and hospitality.  “Today, we stand united to capitalise on these inherent strengths and forge a path towards a future that will yield mutual benefits,” he stated.

In addition, the Rwandan Minister pointed out that although the two countries are geographically separated, they share common values rooted in progress and development.  He extended an invitation to Barbadian investors to learn more about Rwanda and to explore the many opportunities available in various sectors.

The agreement is expected to also foster continuous dialogue on ways to improve South/South relationships, as both countries seek to implement the areas identified in the MOU, inclusive of training in areas within the tourism industry, tourism investment, and multi-destination marketing.

In addition to the continuous dialogue, there will be activation teams from Barbados and Rwanda and familiarisation trips, to help build out the MOU.