It has been over a year since Antigua and Barbuda initiated efforts to establish an air bridge connecting Africa and the Caribbean. The hard work of the government is now paying off as the project is moving closer to becoming a reality.
In the latest development, Prime Minister Browne held discussions with his Barbadian counterpart, Prime Minister Mia Mottley, who has extended her support and cooperation to achieve this goal.
This collaboration between the two nations is expected to bolster the prospects of realizing this vital air connection.
“Barbados has also indicated that the issue of LIAT 2020, will also provide the kind of uplift that Antigua and Barbuda needs so that Antigua and Barbuda is not going alone. I believe similar promises of assistance and participation have been signaled by both Dominica and Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, and for that, the Cabinet of Antigua and Barbuda is very thankful” Governments Chief of Staff Lionel Max Hurst said
He said A team of officials left for Barbados this week to continue the discussions with officials in the Barbados Ministry of Aviation that would allow for the flight.
“The hope is that Airpiece will begin with flying from Lagos to Antigua, would go on to Barbados, and may even leave Barbados and return directly to the African continent. But some of these details are yet to be worked out. But we can see the participation of Barbados in this significant venture”, Hurst added
To aid in this, the Development Commissioner, the Solicitor General, and a member of the LIAT 2020 board brought an agreement with Air Peace to the Cabinet, which the Prime Minister approved and signed.
Under this agreement, Air Peace will become the funding source for LIAT (2020) and own 70% of the shares, while 30% will go towards Antigua and Barbuda.
Furthermore, the Cabinet was informed that Dominica and St. Vincent are likely to extend their support for this initiative.
It’s hard for me to believe that Barbados is on board with Antigua after the big African saga and LIAT. Saint Vincent I would believe because both leaders are no different.