Suriname will now be a stop on the inter-regional cargo ferry service, joining Trinidad and Tobago, Barbados, and Guyana.
Fruitful discussions on this major maritime transportation initiative took place during the first session of the 46th Regular Meeting of the CARICOM Heads of Government in Georgetown, Guyana, as revealed by the Office of the Prime Minister (OPM) of Trinidad and Tobago.
The OPM’s media release highlighted the engagement of leaders in discussions about the imminent launch of an inter-regional cargo ferry that will initially operate on the Trinidad and Tobago, Barbados, and Guyana routes. The release stated that it is anticipated Suriname will be added to the ferry’s route, expanding its reach within the CARICOM region.
Prime Minister Dr. Keith Rowley expressed satisfaction with the progress of the talks during the Guyana meeting. Prime Minister Rowley said he was pleased with the level of interest generated by the decision to launch the ferry and confirmed that the Government is committed to ensuring that the commercial preparatory work is completed.
While the Government of Trinidad and Tobago is dedicated to facilitating the incubation of the project, there is an expectation that the private sector will play a crucial role in the expansion of the ferry service, according to the release. The vessel identified for this initiative is the Galleon’s Passage.
During the launch of the Guyana Energy Conference 2024 and Supply Change Expo on February 19, Dr. Mohamed Irfaan Ali, the President of Guyana and current Chair of CARICOM, emphasised the potential profitability of investments in transportation, especially in achieving regional food security.
CARICOM is presently working towards its “25 by 2025 initiative,” aiming to reduce the region’s food import bill by 25 per cent by the year 2025. The inclusion of Suriname in the inter-regional cargo ferry service aligns with this broader objective, fostering greater regional connectivity and economic cooperation.
