Minister of Tourism and Industry visits Taiwan

Minister of Tourism and Industry Saboto Caesar returned to the state earlier this week, after completing an official visit to the Republic of China (Taiwan).{{more}}

Whilst in Taipei, a courtesy call was made on H.E. Timothy C.T Yang, Minister of Foreign Affairs, where general discussions were held as to the possible means by which the Governments of St. Vincent and the Grenadines and the Republic of China (Taiwan) can work together to enhance this country’s tourism sector.

According to Caesar, “This country’s Tourism Sector may soon stand to benefit significantly, if we are able to tap into the Taiwanese Diaspora resident in the United States of America and Europe as a niche non-traditional source market.” He, however, stressed that the Argyle International Airport project is key to our country harnessing such possibilities.

In his presentation, he stressed the opportunities of further creatively strengthening the bonds between the two countries through tourism. The Tourism Minister is optimistic that the relevant governmental apparatuses in both countries can work together to set out the appropriate strategic framework that can cause more persons from the Republic China (Taiwan) to want to vacation in St. Vincent and the Grenadines. He added that this initiative could trigger exponential growth in our tourist arrival figures as early as 2014, once successful.

Profound gratefulness was expressed to the Government and people of the Republic of China (Taiwan) for their assistance in the construction of the Argyle International Airport and for the projected resultant benefits that this mega-project will have on the Tourism Sector and by extension the national economy.

Consultations were also held with the Government of the Republic of China (Taiwan)’s Small and Medium Enterprise Administration in the Ministry of Economic Affairs; the Tourism Bureau, and the Taiwan International Cooperation and Development Fund (ICDF).

Visits were also made to the Taichung District Agricultural Research and Extension Station, the Changhua (Chang-hu-ah) Christian Hospital and the Sun Moon Lake National Scenic Site.

Caesar noted that the visit was a success and that he looks forward to the continued excellent working relations between the two governments.