Conviasa Airlines flying to SVG again

by Peter Marshall Tue, Aug 23. 2011



With the air at Arnos Vale trembling from the triumphant roar of its engines, Conviasa Airlines resumed flights to St. Vincent and the Grenadines last Thursday, August 19.{{more}}

Welcoming the contingent who came in on the flight was Dr. Douglas Slater, Minister of Foreign Affairs, who hosted a brief ceremony in the V.I.P Lounge of the E.T. Joshua Airport, immediately following the plane’s arrival at 4 pm.

Slater emphasised his and his government’s pleasure at the resumption of flights using this route, as they saw it as very important to them. Additionally, he said, many benefits were to be gained from trade, tourism and integration and these benefits extend to all member countries of ALBA. With Conviasa, Douglas asserts, travel within these countries would be far easier and, to this effect, he made special mention of the benefits to students who study in Cuba and Venezuela.

Also addressing the ceremony was Chief Jesus Vinas, President of Conviasa, who spoke with the assistance of a translator. He described the experience as an “honour and a privilege”, brought greetings from and conveyed the happiness of his President Hugo Chavez. He revealed that the two visited St. Vincent and, subsequent to this visit, felt the need to rebuild a more open connection.

He referenced the development of ties between Venezuela and St. Vincent and the Grenadines, pointing to initiatives such as the Petro Caribe agreement and the provision of scholarships. He noted that intentions to integrate are impossible, if we do not have a tool with which we can see each other face to face; “a real, physical connection” as he put it.

Flights will run twice a week, on Tuesdays and Thursdays, and will commence today, Tuesday, August 23.

Also addressing the ceremony was Ambassador of Venezuela to St. Vincent and the Grenadines Yoel Perez Marcano who delivered brief remarks. The Ambassadors of Brazil and Cuba were also present at the welcoming ceremony.