PM Ralph Gonsalves Praises LIAT 2020 and Calls for Stronger Caribbean-African Ties at Inaugural Flight Event
Yesterday, Prime Minister Ralph Gonsalves of St. Vincent and the Grenadines delivered remarks at the launch of LIAT 2020’s inaugural flight, emphasizing the airline’s rebirth and the broader importance of fostering closer connections between the Caribbean and Africa. He hailed the significance of this new phase for LIAT, a historic airline that had faced challenges in the past but now rises “like a metaphoric Phoenix” under new leadership, with strong investments from both the Caribbean and African partners.
Gonsalves expressed gratitude to Antigua and Barbuda Prime Minister Gaston Browne for his leadership in reviving the airline. He referenced Browne’s faith in LIAT’s renewal, likening it to “the substance of what we hope for, the evidence of things not yet seen,” a belief that led to the successful relaunch despite skepticism. The PM highlighted the contributions of African stakeholders, including the involvement of West African investors, noting that this collaboration marks a deeper integration between the Caribbean and Africa.
The Prime Minister introduced key figures present at the event, including a top executive from West Africa, St. Vincent’s own Chief Executive Officer of Argyle International Airport (AIA), and Tony Regisford, chairman of Invest SVG. He particularly praised AIA’s CEO, a St. Vincentian who trained in engineering in Cuba, acknowledging her critical role in the airport’s success and in ensuring LIAT 2020 thrives.
Gonsalves underscored the broader significance of LIAT 2020’s success, which he said could trigger further investments in St. Vincent and the Caribbean. Citing examples like African Export-Import Bank’s expansion in Barbados, he pointed out that investment opportunities are abundant in the region and that St. Vincent and the Grenadines would be ready to support the growth of LIAT as it expands its reach.
The Prime Minister announced the establishment of a southern hub for LIAT 2020 at Argyle International Airport, a move welcomed by local stakeholders as it positions the island for more business and tourism growth. He highlighted the airport’s resilience, having weathered natural disasters like the La Soufrière volcanic eruption, and noted the expansion of St. Vincent’s hotel and tourism sector, which has already drawn in significant investments.
Despite the economic setbacks caused by these disasters, Gonsalves assured that St. Vincent and the Grenadines continues to rebuild, with ongoing efforts to restore infrastructure and essential services on the islands. He highlighted that tourism remains a vital industry, with a steady recovery in places like Canouan, Mustique, and Union Island.
As he reflected on the broader implications of LIAT 2020’s return, Gonsalves noted that this revival marks an important step toward deeper regional integration. He stressed the need for continued collaboration between Caribbean nations and African states, calling it a critical nexus for the future. “We are part of the sixth region of the African Union,” he said, emphasizing that the partnership with Africa offers immense potential for economic and cultural exchange.
Prime Minister Gonsalves extended heartfelt thanks to all those involved in the airline’s revival, especially the African investors and his colleagues in the Caribbean. He affirmed his unwavering commitment to supporting LIAT 2020 and ensuring its continued success, saying, “Good policy is good politics,” as he praised Prime Minister Browne’s leadership and vision.
With a renewed focus on collaboration between the Caribbean and Africa, Gonsalves expressed optimism that LIAT 2020’s resurgence would be the beginning of an era of stronger ties, increased investments, and mutual growth between the two regions.
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Sir Ralph Gonsalves shares the African vision. He is proof to the (Antigua and SVN) opposition (last 3 elections) that almost does not count https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=is9b77WXqmY
2010. The result was a victory for the Unity Labour Party, which won eight of the fifteen seats in the House of Assembly.[1]
2015: General elections were held in Saint Vincent and the Grenadines on 9 December 2015.[1] The result was a victory for the Unity Labour Party, which retained its one seat majority.
2020: The result was a victory for the Unity Labour Party, its fifth in a row; the party won nine of the fifteen seats.. the New Democratic Party won the popular vote.
Ralph Gonsalves:How much money did your Administration invested in LIAT 20? LIAT 20,landing in St.Vincent bring landing fees into your Treasury.While the taxpayers of Antigua and Barbuda are the ones holding the bill monthly. I for one do not trust you.I do believed Gaston Browne does not trust you either.I hope you CHOKED on your words,HYPOCRITE.