Guyana, Barbados creating new investment fund as travel becomes easier with digital ID card

Just as Guyana and Barbados officially launched a new programme to make travel between the two countries much easier, the leaders of both states say they will continue to partner and are now looking at a new investment fund.

On Monday, Barbados Prime Minister Mia Mottley became the first Bajan to travel to Guyana using a digital identification card instead of a passport. This is a new measure being implemented by both countries, allowing their citizens to travel without passports.

“This initiative represents a major step forward in regional cooperation,” President Ali said at a press conference on May 26.

He explained that the venture was made possible through the passage of the necessary orders by the cabinets of both countries, following consultations involving government officials, CARICOM IMPACS and other regional stakeholders. It will be fully rolled out from July 1, giving airlines time to adjust.

Prime Minister Mottley travelled to Guyana to join the country’s celebrations for its 60th Independence Anniversary. At the press conference, she said this initiative should, over time, be expanded to other Caribbean countries.

Importantly, she announced that she and President Ali are working towards creating the new “Trident Arrow Investment Fund”, which will allow citizens of both countries to invest in critical infrastructure and long-term national projects.

According to her, the fund will allow citizens to earn sound returns and become owners of projects in their countries.