News

Ministerial Statement

Published

7 years ago

July 27, 2017

Turks and Caicos, July 27, 2017 – Providenciales – Salutations: Whilst many are delighting in engaging in negativity, a number of positive things are happening for these Islands. My Government is committed to continuing to keep its people informed through Town Hall Meetings, Press Releases, Press Conferences and social media. I am also pleased to announce that over the next few weeks, we will be making scheduled appearances on Radio and TV networks.

Mr Speaker, the Premiers Office coordinated a Policy Agenda and from time to time in accordance with the Code of Conduct and the Standing Orders of this House through ministerial statements, Ministers will make major statements on policy.

As Premier and Minister of Finance, my Office and Ministry has been focusing on major policy initiatives and today I highlight a few.

POLICY UPDATES

PUBLIC CONSULTATION POLICY

Mr Speaker in light of the recent challenge to Government processes in the area of consultation, my government recognized the need for greater consistency in our approach to consultations, planning and practice allowing both public official and interested parties a sense of what may be expected from a consultation; structured analysis of submissions to consultations will also help to ensure a balance of viewpoints contribute to policy-making.

Mr Speaker as Premier a Paper was presented to Cabinet to introduce a Public Consultation Policy. This document provides the first edition of the guidelines and consultation policy, to be regularly reviewed and updated annually. All officials involved in the preparation of legislative or policy proposals or in their evaluation should read these guidelines including officials and managers who are responsible for ensuring the quality of stakeholder consultation.

Mr Speaker, the proposed policy document is divided into two sections, section one outlines the key consideration in the preparations of consultation, the strategic plan and minimal requirements. The following section outlines the steps involved in the consultation process and planning.

These Guidelines have been produced as a practical guide for use by Government Departments, public bodies and any other organisations that may wish to consult with stakeholders. The Guidelines will also be of use to those who are interested in participating and responding to consultations. In this context, Mr Speaker, they are aimed at giving stakeholders a clear sense of the standards of consultation that should be expected from public bodies. The Guidelines are particularly relevant to public bodies with regulatory responsibilities, as consultation in advance of making regulations is accepted good practice and, in a number of cases, mandatory.

While not designed as a prescriptive list, the Guidelines set out the different aspects that public bodies should consider when engaging in consultation.

MAJOR POLICY INITIATIVES WITH CDB

Mr. Speaker, my government in its quest to ensure that development planning is comprehensive, and covers all aspects of the national economy, have partnered with the Caribbean Development Bank to assist the TCI in undertaking three critical technical assistance studies that would benefit these islands in the medium to long term.

Solid Waste Management

Mr. Speaker just last week my Government hosted a team from the Bank to discuss an Integrated Solid Waste Management approach to the generation, treatment and disposal of waste in these Islands. Mr. Speaker, Solid Waste Management involves everybody throughout the length and breadth of these Islands, and it is my Government’s intention to advance a technical assistance loan from the Bank to assist us in updating the waste management strategy for the country as well as designing the best option for waste disposal on each Island.

Our Islands do not always depict our country’s tagline and as we clean up the streets and communities, we must put in place proper management systems that will address littering, indiscriminate dumping and management of landfills also known for us as dump sites. Public education and fines will also be hallmarks of the new Policy.

Coastal Protection and Management

Another important technical assistance study Mr. Speaker that the Government is advancing is the loan assistance related to Climate Resilient Coastal Protection and Management that we had hoped would have been before us today for debate. This technical assistance will focus on a feasibility study and prepare designs for coastal protection works on the islands of Grand Turk, Salt Cay and Providenciales. Shoreline management plans for the Islands will also form part of this technical assistance.

Transport Study

Mr. Speaker, the technical assistance grant for the Transport Study was approved in 2016 under the previous administration, but very little progress was made to date. Mr. Speaker during last week, my Government made a commitment to move this project forward in an effort to ensure that there is a transport master plan study review of the road network, ports and airport is completed.

Mr. Speaker these three critical assistance projects can transform these Islands as we envisage the future with spill off industries and employment opportunities arising from converting waste to energy; we look forward to the recommendations for developing our road network and upgrading our port facilities. Mr Speaker our future looks even brighter as we plan for implementing mitigation measures for strengthening our sea defences against climate change impacts.

INVESTMENT POLICY STATEMENT

In 2015 TCIG underwent a review of the current Investment Policy. An Investment Policy Working Group.

The Working Group was tasked with reviewing the current Investment Policy, with specific focus on Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) and its challenges in light of the Government’s goal of achieving “Inclusive Economic Growth’.

The Working Group reviewed the policy and further developed some key questions to aid the policy makers in their consideration of a revised policy.

It was found that the main challenges were:

Encouragement of Development Order being interpreted ‘too narrowly’ as if only pertaining to ‘Bricks & Mortar’ projects, despite this not being explicit in the policy
Incentives focused primarily on Customs duties – other incentives needed to be considered
Review the Investment model – the traditional approach of giving incentives to Invest and then re-couping through Tax is limited in TCI as no direct taxation.
Vetting of investors – there was a need to build capacity of Invest TCI and Ministry of Finance for there should be a robust 4 factor test, namely (i) Is the project ethical/legal, (ii) Does the investor have relevant experience to ensure success, (iii) Does the investor have a team that can deliver to completion and (iv) demonstration that ensures the investors are serious.

Methodology & Approach

The Working Group reviewed the policy and further developed some key questions to aid the policy makers in their consideration of a revised policy.

Following the discussions on this the Consultant developed a White Paper and recommended an Inclusive approach to consultation, i.e. a Stakeholder Consultation. The Consultation was a one day consultation was carried out on May 16^th, 2017 with a mixed group of Stakeholders drawn from across different sectors. Along with the White paper several key questions were developed for discussion under 4 Session headings. The intent was to stimulate Stakeholders thinking concerning the Investment climate overall. These questions were circulated prior to the stakeholder consultation meeting and discussed during the Stakeholder engagement:

Session 1: Investment Targets

What sectors/sub-sectors in the TCI have investment potential? And why?
High end tourism?
IT Development Center? If yes, what areas?
Financial Services Hub?
Agriculture Development? If yes, what areas?
Fisheries? If yes, what areas?
Manufacturing? If yes, what areas?
SMART Specialization?
Medical Tourism?
Retiree Tourism?
Other
How should these sectors be marketed?
What should be the role of the private sector in the promotion? And who should join TEAM TCI? How should TEAM TCI activities be funded?
How much appetite is there for Invest TCI being a One-Stop-Shop for investment?
Is there a role for cooperative marketing in investment promotion?

Session 2: Enabling Environment

Looking at taxation and the delivery of government services, there was much discussion as to what we must do to create a more enabling business environment?

Session 3 – Incentives

What are the current priority sectors are? Should there be any others added to this and why?

Does the Government wants foreign investors to assist in community projects and MSME development. Should this be as part of the Development Agreement process? If so what suggestions are there to accomplish this objective?

My Government is keen to the finalization of this Policy next month and to ensuring that we create a new environment.

PROPERTY REFURBISHMENT POLICY

Introduction

The Turks and Caicos Islands has developed into a “high end” travel destination, providing 4 and 5 star accommodations to upper income families. The Island’s resort clients expect a high level of quality in their accommodation and are prepared to seek other alternatives if the quality falls to unacceptable levels. In order to encourage investors to maintain a very high quality level, the Turks and Caicos Islands has traditionally provided incentives as part of Development Agreements to encourage ongoing refurbishment.

Recently a number of Development Agreements have expired and developers have or have expressed intentions to submit requests to the Government to obtain duty concessions for the continued refurbishment of their properties. In response to the queries, the TCI Government Cabinet agreed to establish a new Refurbishment Policy to cover tourism lodging facilities and designated restaurants in the Islands. This Policy will outline the background to the Government’s refurbishment activities, discuss the rationale for providing incentives and outline the types and length of time for the incentives.

Policy Rationale

In the Caribbean high-end property developers face high construction costs, high and rising utility costs and high labour costs combined with intense competitive pressure to attract travellers. All of these factors place significant pressure on corporate profitability according to independent research firms. Moreover, property developers pay significant taxes during operations (e.g. customs duties, customs administrative fees, work permit fees, business license fees) and contribute significant indirect tax revenue garnered from their customers (e.g. food and beverage taxes, departure taxes).

Despite the intense competition and higher costs of doing business research has found that renovation is critical to a hotel maintaining global standards and being fresh and technologically aligned. While resort owners have a desire to maintain high quality facilities, if profit margins shrink there is pressure on owners to forego maintenance spending which results in the steady degradation in the resort product. In turn, this lower quality leads to lower occupancy rates which in turn leads to reduced rates to owners and lower tax revenues to Government.

The Goal of the Government’s new Refurbishment Policy is to “ensure that vacation properties and designated restaurants in the Turks and Caicos Islands are maintained at a high international standard to ensure high occupancy levels, competitive room pricing and a superior customer experience.”

The TCI Government also has a financial interest in maintaining, high quality facilities. If the Islands high end hotels can maintain a higher daily hotel rate and higher occupancy, Government tax revenues from the various taxes on the tourism sector would remain high and the country’s brand would be enhanced. If the refurbishments do not occur, then product quality declines and with it prices and/or occupancy rates leading to a reduction on Government revenues.

AIR BnB

Currently, the Turks and Caicos Islands are experiencing a significant increase in the number of home owners entering the tourist accommodation business via vacation villa/home rental.

These properties are booked online directly from the owners, property management companies or websites that offer vacation villa/home rentals, such AirBnB, VRBO (Vacation Rental by Onwer), HomeAway etc.

My Government recognizes the potential of this industry as a tremendous business opportunity for our local business persons, however, as we take steps to ensure the development and sustainable growth of this sector, we must ensure that it is managed in a well regulated environment/manner to the benefit of the business community and Government.

Mr. Speaker, I believe the area of Air BnB is a critical area which like VRBOs must be regulated for several reasons. TCI has developed itself as a high end destination, we must be able to ensure that the rental properties are of that such that is commensurate with my brand. Therefore Tourism is working to complete all the inspection guidelines to support strict compliance with standards set. We must also be mindful of the vulnerability of persons renting in homes in highly bushed or secluded areas. Once registered with proper addresses, security concerns can be addressed.

This (Mr. Speaker) must be a priority for the Ministry of Finance as a recent review of the websites offering property listings for the island of Grand Turk (alone) indicated that there are approximately 26 properties offered, however in comparison, the Revenue Control Unit, the department that is responsible for regulating the sector only had 9 properties registered.

In an effort to ensure compliance with our current tourist accommodation legislation by businesses and business persons currently operating in this sector, my Government has granted approval for the Ministry of Finance to commence official discussions with AirBnB with the objective of establishing a MoU.

The intent of the MoU would be to ensure that all TCI properties listed with AirBnB are complying with all laws regulating the tourist accommodation sector, eg the Business Licence Ordinance, the Hotel and Tourism (Taxation) Ordinance and the Tourist Accommodation Ordinance. This will also ensure that the standard of our tourism product (brand TCI) is maintained.

It is envisioned that, should a MoU be established between TCIG and AirBnB, it would be a guide for working with the other businesses/websites that offer vacation villa/home rental properties listed in the TCI.

Mr Speaker my Government is committed to creating policies and carrying out initiatives that will better the lives of our people. Mr Speaker we are working on behalf of our people and we will continue to keep them informed using every forum that is available to us.

Press Release: TCIG

News

Traveling with Firearms

Published

22 hours ago

April 29, 2024

Deandrea Hamilton

April 29th, 2024

While you’re packing your sunscreen and snorkel gear, don’t forget to check your luggage and clothing to remove all guns and ammunition. Many countries in the Caribbean do not allow possession of firearms or ammunition unless you have a local permit and, if arrested while traveling, the United States Embassy will not be able to secure your release.

What to Know Before You Go:

Declaring a weapon in your checked luggage with an airline carrier does not grant you permission to bring the weapon into other countries. It is the responsibility of the traveler to research local laws and complete all necessary forms prior to travel.
Research the laws of the country you will be traveling to. Check the U.S. Department of State Bureau of Consular Affairs and contact the foreign embassy in the United States prior to travel to ensure you have the most up-to-date information.

IF YOU’RE TRAVELING TO THE CARIBBEAN, KNOW THAT IT IS ILLEGAL TO IMPORT OR EXPORT FIREARMS OR AMMUNITION TO OR FROM ANY CARICOM (CARIBBEAN COMMUNITY) MEMBER(LINK IS EXTERNAL) STATES UNLESS YOU HAVE A FIREARM IMPORT LICENSE OR A FIREARM EXPORT LICENSE GRANTED BY THE APPROPRIATE AUTHORITY (SUCH AS THE COMMISSIONER OF POLICE).

Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to receive important safety information regarding your travel and to help the local U.S. Embassy contact you in an emergency.
If you are arrested for gun trafficking abroad, you could be imprisoned, fined or both, and the State Department will not be able to secure your release.
Any person who wishes to export a firearm subject to the National Firearms Act must submit ATF Form 9 (5320.9), Application and Permit for Permanent Exportation of Firearms and obtain approval from ATF prior to export. (ATF)

Where Are You Traveling To?

Full Member States

Antigua and Barbuda

Do not enter Antigua and Barbuda with firearms or ammunition without prior express consent from the Antigua and Barbuda government. Penalties for possession, use, or trafficking in illegal drugs or firearms are severe. Convicted offenders can expect long jail sentences and heavy fines. Contact the Embassy of Antigua and Barbuda(link is external) with questions regarding travel with firearms.

The Bahamas

Firearms, ammunition, and other weapons are not permitted in The Bahamas. According to The Bahamas Firearms Act, individuals found to have a firearm or ammunition in their possession without a legally issued Bahamian gun license face a penalty of up to 10 years’ incarceration and $10,000 fine. Declaring the weapon in your luggage with an airline carrier does not grant permission to bring the weapon into The Bahamas.
If you have a firearm or ammunition onboard a boat entering Bahamian waters, you must declare it with Bahamian Customs at the first point of entry. Only declared shotguns and handguns are allowed in Bahamian waters. You must provide the serial number, name of the manufacturer, and an exact count of ammunition. Declared firearms cannot be removed from your boat and must be kept locked at all times.
If a U.S. citizen illegally brings a firearm or ammunition into The Bahamas, the U.S. Embassy will not be able to secure their release. All foreign nationals are subject to Bahamian law and must follow local law enforcement procedures.

Barbados

Do not enter Barbados with firearms or ammunition without prior express consent from the Barbados government. Penalties for possession, use, or trafficking in illegal drugs or firearms are severe. Convicted offenders can expect long jail sentences and heavy fines. Contact the Embassy of Barbados(link is external) with questions regarding travel with firearms.

Belize

Do not enter Belize with firearms or ammunition without prior express consent from the government of Belize. Contact the Embassy of Belize(link is external) with questions regarding travel with firearms.

Dominica

Do not enter Dominica with firearms or ammunition without prior express consent from the Dominican government. Penalties for possession, use, or trafficking in illegal drugs or firearms are severe, and convicted offenders can expect long jail sentences and heavy fines. Contact the Embassy of Domenica(link is external) with questions regarding travel with firearms.

Grenada

Do not enter Grenada with firearms or ammunition without prior express consent from the government of Grenada. Contact the Embassy of Grenada(link is external) with questions regarding travel with firearms.

Guyana

Do not enter Guyana with firearms or ammunition without prior express consent from the Guyana Police Force. Visit the Guyana Police Force(link is external) and U.S. Customs and Border Protection websites for more information.

Haiti

Possession of firearms, ammunition, and dangerous weaponry is strictly prohibited to any person, unless the individual has a Haitian license or has been specifically authorized by Haitian authorities. In order to bring a firearm into Haiti, an owner must obtain written permission in advance from the Director-General of the Haitian National Police (HNP). Contact the “Centre de Renseignement de la police”/Information Center (CRO) at cropnh@yahoo.fr(link is external) or by telephone at (+509) 3838-1111 / 3837-1111/3839-1111 for additional information. Travelers caught entering Haiti with any type of weapon, including firearms or ammunitions, will likely face severe penalties, including prison time. U.S.-issued permits allowing an individual to carry weapons are not valid in Haiti.

Jamaica

Jamaica strictly forbids importing or possessing firearms in Jamaica without prior authorization of the Firearms Licensing Authority of Jamaica. A U.S. concealed carry permit does not allow you to bring a firearm or ammunition into Jamaica. On Nov. 1, 2022, the Firearms (Prohibition, Restriction and Regulation) Act 2022(link is external) went into effect. This new law includes mandatory minimum sentences of 15 years for possession of even a single cartridge.

If you bring an unauthorized firearm, firearm components, firearm parts or ammunition to Jamaica, you will be arrested and prosecuted. This will result in a large fine and/or incarceration for an unspecified amount of time. Bringing mace, pepper spray or knives into Jamaica without authorization will also lead to arrest.

Montserrat

Penalties for possession, use, or trafficking in illegal firearms are severe. Convicted offenders can expect long jail sentences and heavy fines. Do not enter Montserrat with firearms or ammunition without prior express consent from the British government. Contact the British Embassy(link is external) before you travel with questions regarding travel with firearms.

Saint Kitts and Nevis

Do not enter Saint Kitts and Nevis with firearms or ammunition without prior express consent from the government of Saint Kitts and Nevis. Penalties for possession, use, or trafficking in illegal drugs or firearms are severe, and convicted offenders can expect long jail sentences and heavy fines. Contact the Embassy of Saint Kitts and Nevis(link is external) before you travel.

Saint Lucia

Do not enter Saint Lucia with firearms or ammunition without prior express consent from the Saint Lucia government. Penalties for possession, use, or trafficking in illegal drugs or firearms are severe. Convicted offenders can expect long jail sentences and heavy fines. Contact the Embassy of Saint Lucia(link is external) with questions regarding travel with firearms.

Saint Vincent and the Grenadines

Do not enter Saint Vincent and the Grenadines with firearms or ammunition without prior express consent from the Saint Vincent and the Grenadines government. Penalties for possession, use, or trafficking in illegal drugs or firearms are severe. Convicted offenders can expect long jail sentences and heavy fines. Contact the government of Saint Vincent and the Grenadines(link is external) before you travel with questions regarding travel with firearms.

Suriname

Trinidad and Tobago

It is illegal to carry ammunition when arriving, departing or transiting through Trinidad and Tobago. Individuals found with as little as one bullet, a previously discharged bullet casing, or spent ammunition used in items such as jewelry or keyrings on their person or in their luggage at the airport have been detained, charged, and fined.

Associate States

Anguilla

Do not enter Anguilla with firearms or ammunition without prior express consent from the British government. Penalties for possession, use, or trafficking in illegal drugs or firearms are severe, and convicted offenders can expect long jail sentences and heavy fines. Contact the British Embassy(link is external) before you travel with questions regarding travel with firearms.

Bermuda

The Department of State warns United States citizens against taking any type of firearm, ammunition or component of a firearm into Bermuda. The Bermuda government strictly enforces its laws restricting the entry of weapons and ammunition. Entering Bermuda with a firearm, bladed instruments, an ammunition magazine, or even a single round of ammunition is illegal, even if the weapon or ammunition is taken into the country unintentionally. Permission to import or own a gun in Bermuda must be sought in advance from the Bermuda Police Service(link is external). Any privately owned firearms must be secured at Bermuda Police Headquarters. Violations may result in arrest, convictions, and potentially long prison sentences. Pepper sprays and stun guns are considered dangerous weapons in Bermuda and are illegal.

British Virgin Islands

Firearms entry restrictions may exist for visitors to and foreign residents of the British Virgin Islands. Contact the BVI Immigration Department(link is external) before you travel. Penalties for possession, use or trafficking in illegal drugs or firearms are severe, and convicted offenders can expect long jail sentences and heavy fines.

Cayman Islands

You are strictly forbidden to import or possess firearms or ammunition in the Cayman Islands. Even a single bullet inadvertently loose in a carry-on bag can lead to arrest. A conceal carry permit, employment by a police agency, or service in U.S. Armed Forces does not allow you to bring a firearm or ammunition into the Cayman Islands. If you travel with firearms, firearm components or parts and/or ammunition to the Cayman Islands, you will be arrested and referred to the local courts for prosecution, which will result in a substantial fine and/or incarceration for an unspecified amount of time.

Turks and Caicos Islands

Firearms, ammunition, and other weapons are not permitted in the Turks and Caicos Islands (TCI). TCI authorities strictly enforce all firearm-related laws; penalties include a minimum custodial sentence of 12 years according to the TCI Firearms Ordinance(link is external). Declaring the weapon in your luggage with an airline carrier does not grant permission to bring the weapon into the Turks and Caicos Islands.

Observer States

Aruba

Colombia

Colombian law prohibits tourists and business travelers from bringing firearms and ammunition into Colombia.

Curaçao

Dominican Republic

Mexico

Weapons laws in Mexico vary by state, but it is generally illegal for travelers to carry weapons of any kind including firearms, knives, daggers, brass knuckles and ammunition (even used shells). Illegal firearms trafficking from the United States to Mexico is a major concern, and the Department of State warns all U.S. citizens against taking any firearm or ammunition into Mexico. If you are caught entering Mexico with any type of weapon, including firearms or ammunitions, you likely will face severe penalties, including prison time. U.S.-issued permits allowing an individual to carry weapons are not valid in Mexico. Vessels entering Mexican waters with firearms or ammunition on board must have a permit previously issued by a Mexican embassy or consulate.

Puerto Rico

Under the “Puerto Rico Weapons Act,” individuals are required to have a license to possess and a permit to carry firearms in Puerto Rico.

Sint Maarten

Venezuela

More Resources:

Travelers with Firearms (U.S. Department of State – Bureau of Consular Affairs)
Temporarily taking a firearm or ammunition outside the United States for personal reasons. i.e., hunting, or other personal recreational activities (U.S. Customs and Border Protection)
Guidance for U.S. Persons Traveling Outside the U.S. with Firearms and/or Ammunition (U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement)
How do I export defense articles, including firearms and ammunition? (Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives)

Original warning from the ATF can be found here:

https://www.atf.gov/firearms/traveling-firearms

Bahamas News

Freeport Business Expo to connect Grand Bahama businesses and entrepreneurs to expert resources

Published

4 days ago

April 27, 2024

Deandrea Hamilton

Grand Bahama Port Authority, Limited

April 29, 2024 – Freeport, The Bahamas – In line with its mission to create a stronger, more connected Freeport economy, the Grand Bahama Port Authority, Limited (GBPA) is pleased to share details of the upcoming Freeport Business Expo: Tourism Edition, taking place on Thursday, May 2, 2024 at the Grand Lucayan Convention Center in Grand Bahama.

“As the GBPA continues its work to attract investors to Freeport, we offer this showcase of local and international businesses offering services and opportunities to potential and existing licensees,” stated Ian Rolle, GBPA President. “This Expo will not only connect unique international service providers with Bahamian entrepreneurs aiming to introduce new tourist attractions, but also bring together financing institutions to support Bahamian-owned start-ups and existing businesses in the industry.”

The emphasis on tourism at the 2024 Expo ensures that those in tourism-focused businesses are certain to benefit. The event will offer opportunities to meet potential business partners, gain insight on financial opportunities, engage with leaders in workshops and one-on-one sessions, and get answers on starting a Freeport business and obtaining a GBPA license.

“We regularly host community business expos,” said Glendia Sweeting, Manager of Quality Assurance and Special Projects. “But we recognize the significant benefit of an expo focused on enhancing tourism business offerings through connecting international service providers and Bahamian entrepreneurs. We have more than thirty local and national exhibitors taking part on May 2^nd, along with several international service providers.”

Multiple investment projects currently in progress and planned in the city of Freeport is creating anticipation for existing and potential entrepreneurs and this expo is geared towards preparing them for these opportunities. “Grand Bahama is going to experience a significant growth spurt in the next one to three years. I would strongly encourage everybody who wants to get involved in business to look at Grand Bahama as one of the top choices, especially over the next three years,” said Mr. Rolle.

The Expo opens on Wednesday, May 1^st with a welcome reception from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. A full day of learning and networking opportunities follows on Thursday, May 2^nd. GBPA’s partners in the Freeport Business Expo include:

Grand Bahama Island Promotion Board
Ministry for Grand Bahama
Grand Bahama Chamber of Commerce
Ministry of Tourism
Bahamas Immigration
Bahamas Customs
Five Star Shipping Company
Viva Wyndham Fortuna
Bahamas Air
Grand Lucayan Hotel

Registration for access to the Expo’s exhibitors is free, and all-access passes are available for purchase. Event details and registration information may be found at freeportbusinessexpo.com.

Bahamas News

Sister Province/Island Relationship Agreement Signed between Grand Bahama Island and Hunan Province

Published

5 days ago

April 25, 2024

Deandrea Hamilton

By LLONELLA GILBERT
Bahamas Information Services

NASSAU, The Bahamas — A significant milestone was made in the development of bilateral relations between the Governments of The Bahamas and the People’s Republic of China by the signing of the Sister Province/Island Relationship Agreement between Grand Bahama Island and Hunan Province.

The signing took place at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs on Tuesday, April 23, 2024. The Hon. Ginger Moxey, Minister for Grand Bahama; the Hon. Dr. Michael Darville, Minister of Health and Wellness; Kingsley Smith, Parliamentary Secretary in the Ministry for Grand Bahama and Joel Lewis, Permanent Secretary in the Ministry for Grand Bahama represented The Bahamas at the signing.

His Excellency Mao Weiming, Governor of Hunan Provincial People’s Government; Qu Hai, Secretary General of Hunan Provincial People’s Government; Cui Wei, Charge d’Affaires, Embassy of the People’s Republic of China; and Yang Peiran, Interpreter represented the People’s Republic of China.

Minister Moxey explained that in February 2022, she and the former Chinese Ambassador to The Bahamas, Her Excellency Dai Qingli began discussion on the establishment of a province-island relationship between Hunan Province and Grand Bahama Island because of their “immense synergy”.

“Hunan has a vibrant creative industry and its capital city, Changsha is known as the entertainment capital of China, whilst Grand Bahama is poised to become the home of entertainment in ‘Our Bluepoint for Change’.”

She said Hunan Province boasts 11 industrial sectors and Grand Bahama is the industrial capital of The Bahamas. Further, innovation driven development has been a new driving force for Hunan, while Grand Bahama is poised to become the home of innovation for The Bahamas.

Minister Moxey said she is confident that an exchange of knowledge, ideas and culture will happen between the residents of Hunan Province and Grand Bahama.

“There is potential for robust trade in various sectors, opportunities for tourism promotion and intercultural appreciation, exchanges to support performing arts programs on our island, foster growth within the Orange Economy, and tap into China’s innovation, technology and vast expertise.”

She said that the formal signing aligns with the mission of Sister Cities International, which is to promote peace through mutual respect, understanding and cooperation, one community at a time.

The Minister said, “Through collaborative programs and initiatives, this connection will support the government’s vision to diversity Grand Bahama’s economy to become the Home of Maritime and Logistics, Home of Events and Entertainment and Home of Innovation.”

She noted that in addition to signing the agreement, she looks forward to Grand Bahama residents benefitting from the signing of the Cooperation Memorandum of Understanding between Central South University and University of The Bahamas (UB), which will expand educational and technical cooperation between the two universities. The northern campus of UB is located in Grand Bahama.

His Excellency Mao Weiming said although geographically far apart, China and The Bahamas are friends with mutual respect and understanding as well as sincerity.

He explained that 27 years ago, both countries established diplomatic relations and China and The Bahamas have deepened their cooperation, strengthened their friendship and carried out many activities in the field of economy, trade and people-to-people exchange.

His Excellency recalled that in August 2022, he and Prime Minister and the Minister of Finance the Hon. Philip Davis had a video conference where they both reached a consensus to cooperate in order to usher a new chapter in the relationship between Hunan and The Bahamas.

“Today, we are here to sign a sister-to-sister relationship between Hunan and Grand Bahama. It is [a] concrete move to implement our consensus reached before and also to embark on a new journey of friendly exchanges.”

He added, “By establishing the relationship of sister cities, I believe the two sides will develop further in terms of economic and trade cooperation, people to people exchange, as well as friendship, and we will embrace new opportunities and deliver concrete benefits for the two peoples.”

He explained that Hunan, which is the home town of Chairman Mao, the founder of the People’s Republic of China, has developed very advanced industries of manufacturing, agriculture, education, culture as well as tourism.

His Excellency said he believes that Hunan and Grand Bahama enjoy very broad room for cooperation.

He said, “More efforts should be made to conduct cooperation in the fields of agriculture, tourism, culture, education and the film industry so as to realize a connectivity between our two sides in terms of logistics and the platform cooperation; so as to deliver concrete benefits for the people and to make our due contribution to the bilateral relationship between China and The Bahamas.”

PHOTO CAPTION

A significant milestone was made in the development of bilateral relations between the Governments of The Bahamas and the People’s Republic of China by the signing of the Sister Province/Island Relationship Agreement between Grand Bahama Island and Hunan Province. The signing took place at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs on Tuesday, April 23, 2024. Shown from left: Qu Hai, Secretary General of Hunan Provincial People’s Government; Cui Wei, Charge d’Affaires, Embassy of the People’s Republic of China; Yang Peiran, Interpreter H.E. Mao Weiming, Governor of Hunan Provincial People’s Government; the Hon. Ginger Moxey, Minister for Grand Bahama; the Hon. Dr. Michael Darville, Minister of Health and Wellness; Kingsley Smith, Parliamentary Secretary in the Ministry for Grand Bahama and Joel Lewis, Permanent Secretary in the Ministry for Grand Bahama.

(BIS Photos/Anthon Thompson)