Ukrainian Ambassador Pays Courtesy Call

St. John’s, Antigua and Barbuda: Minister of Tourism, Economic Development, Investment and Energy the Hon. Asot Michael yesterday (Tues) laid the basis for future collaboration with the Government and people of Ukraine when he met with the Ambassador of Ukraine for the United States of America, His Excellency Valeriy Chaly.

The Ambassador presented his credentials to Minister Michael who used the opportunity to inquire into prospects of collaboration between both countries in the areas of tourism education, medicine, as well as investments.

Speaking on the composition of his native country of Ukraine, Ambassador Chaly noted that vacationers there usually visit Egypt, Europe or Crimea, however, the time has come to diversify.

The newly ratified European Open Space Agreement will allow for ease of travel for European Airlines into the Ukraine and as such will enable travel to Antigua and Barbuda as a vacation destination. At the moment the challenge presented relates to the fact that little information is available in the Ukraine about the Twin Island destination.

Already plans are in the pipelines to establish an Honorary Consul in Antigua with the hopes that both countries can cooperate more on the development of economic ties.

Minister Michael extended an invitation to the Ukrainian President as well as other chief officials to make an official visit to the country to engage in further bi-lateral talks.

The team of Ambassador Chaly and his assistant also paid a visit to the Attorney General the Hon. Steadroy Benjamin where talks surrounded the issue of police reform.