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Minister of Foreign Affairs and Foreign Trade, Senator Maxine McClean. (FP)

Minister of Foreign Affairs and Foreign Trade, Senator Maxine McClean, has acknowledged the need to work on immigration issues between Barbados and Guyana as an impetus to further deepen the existing bilateral relationship.??????????????

She made this observation last Friday during a reception to mark the 47th Anniversary of Guyana’s Independence held at its Consulate in Sefton Lodge, Brittons Hill, St. Michael.

Noting that the country had been able to solve a range of issues as they arose, Senator McClean said a special area of work needed to be undertaken at the Barbados-Guyana Joint Commission.

"That pertains to the management of cooperation issues in the sphere of Immigration on which a workable solution must be found.?? My Ministry and the Consulate General, since its establishment here in July last year, have been in constant contact on immigration issues as they arise," Senator McClean pointed out.

The Foreign Affairs Minister further stated: "Like with all families and friends, relationships often suffer some strains.?? But, despite these, I believe that over the years, our countries have set an example to other countries on how bilateral relations between neighbours, should be conducted."

Highlighting the positives in the bilateral relationship, Senator McClean alluded to the critical role played by Guyanese innovators and enterprises in the post-Independence development of the Barbadian private sector landscape.

She contended that these investments had created an indelible mark on the country’s development and singled out the achievements of Banks Breweries and Laparkan for special mention.?? She also mentioned the achievements of Barbadian businessman Sir Kyffin Simpson.

"These are two companies with global reach of which both our countries can be proud.?? This is one of the several features of the ties between our two countries.?? Today, we note Barbadian businessman Sir Kyffin Simpson, has made a major investment in Guyana.?? His 30,000 acre agricultural venture is about to harvest its first rice crop," Senator McClean underlined.

The Foreign Affairs Minister expressed the hope that the existing relationship would "continue to grow and strengthen and that together, we will continue to seize opportunities on issues of mutual concern to the benefit of our people".

julie.carrington@barbados.gov.bb

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