Guyana is pushing for a new era of tourism collaboration with Grenada, with President Dr. Mohamed Irfaan Ali proposing joint, multi-destination packages that he says could boost visitor arrivals, increase revenue, and create a more connected Caribbean tourism landscape.
The president made the announcement at the opening of the new Honorary Consulate of Grenada in Georgetown on Monday evening, where he joined Grenada’s Prime Minister Dickon Mitchell and Foreign Affairs Minister Joseph Andall to formally inaugurate the office on New Market Street.
President Ali said tourism stands out as one of the most promising areas for deeper cooperation, noting that the two countries’ strengths are “different enough to complement rather than compete with each other.”
“Grenada is globally recognised for its beaches, marine attractions, yachting sector, and spice-infused cultural charm that has earned it the nickname the Spice Isle,” he said.
By contrast, he noted, Guyana offers a world-class eco-tourism experience rooted in pristine rainforests, waterfalls, wildlife, and river-based adventures. “Together, these differences can become a powerful asset… we can create multi-destination packages that bring greater value to travellers and enhance regional competitiveness.”
However, he stressed that better air connectivity is essential for such integration to work — and pledged that Guyana will take the lead in charting that path.
Strengthening cooperation and economic links
President Ali described the new Consulate as a critical channel for communication, business facilitation, and tourism advocacy, saying it is “opening a door” to expanded cooperation built on strong people-to-people ties.
He also highlighted growing collaboration on regional food security and proposed that Guyana become Grenada’s “most trusted partner” in supplying high-quality, stable food at consistent prices. He said both nations aim to sign a comprehensive bilateral agreement in the first quarter of next year.
The Guyanese leader went further, suggesting a joint investment to rebuild and modernise Grenada’s spice industry — including processing and packaging facilities to serve Caribbean and international markets.
According to President Ali, closer ties between the two nations could also encourage the wider region to dismantle outdated laws and artificial trade barriers.
Grenada praises Guyana’s leadership
Prime Minister Dickon Mitchell commended Guyana’s role as a strong and reliable regional partner, praising President Ali for his leadership and his support for Caribbean nations affected by natural disasters. He urged regional governments to push for home-grown solutions and maintain responsibility for their economic future.
Both leaders said discussions are already underway on several areas of cooperation and integration.
Grenada has appointed prominent Guyanese businessman Dr. Komal Singh as its Honorary Consul in Georgetown. Honorary consuls represent another country’s interests without pay while maintaining their own private employment.
Several high-level Guyanese officials attended the opening ceremony, including Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation Hugh Todd, Senior Minister in the Office of the President with responsibility for Finance Dr. Ashni Singh, Tourism Minister Susan Rodrigues, and members of the diplomatic corps.
