SVG and Cuba to strengthen technical co-operation in Tourism and Hospitality training

The Ministry of Tourism, Civil Aviation, Sustainable and Culture of St Vincent and the Grenadines (SVG) signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with the Ministry of Tourism of the Republic of Cuba to strengthen technical co-operation between both countries in the areas of Tourism and Hospitality . The agreement was signed on Monday, May 1,2023 in Havana, Republic of Cuba, a release from the Ministry of Tourism states.

Minister of Tourism of Cuba Juan Carlos Garcia Granda, hosted a bilateral meeting with the Vincentian delegation which was led by Minister of Tourism, Carlos James. Minister James expressed his appreciation for the continued solidarity shared between the Government and people of the Republic of Cuba and SVG.

“The agreement will strengthen co-operation in technical areas between both countries and enhance the broad framework of collaboration among countries of the South,” James said.

“We can capitalise on the unique features of our destinations and jointly promote a sustainable tourism package as we seek to expand our source markets.”

The MOU aims to facilitate co-operation through joint actions, exchange of experiences, and technical co-operation.

According to the MOU, these areas of common interest include but are not limited to product development, promotion and marketing of products, familiarisation tours and enhancement of various types of tourism inclusive of Agro Tourism, Eco-Tourism, Cultural and

Heritage Tourism and Festival Tourism. Additionally, the partnership provides opportunities for internship exchange programmes which target students and industry stakeholders. The exchange programmes will include training in areas of hospitality services, tourism, gastronomy, language and the arts.

“The relations between the Republic of Cuba and the Government of St. Vincent and the Grenadines are strong; it is built on solidarity and love,” said Cuba’s Minister of Tourism, Juan Carlos.

He added that the MOU will foster greater collaboration and support for an integrated Caribbean tourism product.

The Ministers of Tourism signed the MOU in the presence of Ambassador of St Vincent and the Grenadines to Cuba, Ellsworth I. E John and senior officials from the Ministry of Tourism of Cuba and SVG.