Caribbean Airlines flight BW216 touched down in Guyana this afternoon from Barbados with the first set of passengers using their Electronic Identification card to enter Guyana.

Today marked the official roll out of the passport-free travel between Guyana and Barbados, with citizens of the two countries being allowed to use only their Digital Identification (ID) cards to travel.

The intention is to enhance the ease of travel between the two sister CARICOM states.

Speaking to the media today following the inaugural flight from Bridgetown, Minister of Public Service and Government efficiency, Zulfikar Ally said the airlines have put the requisite requirements in place to facilitate the new requirement and all systems are now in place for smooth travel using E-ID Cards for the two states.

“So, today is the first day that this card will be used through Caribbean airlines as well as other airlines, we are also speaking to LIAT as well, so more and more we will see the integration of this card for travel throughout the region, and today is a historic moment,” Mr. Ally said.

The Minister acknowledged the record speed in which the system was put in place since the announcement of the initiative. He said it shows that both countries are committed to regional integration.

“So, this also shows what we can do when we come together as a region working together and advancement that we are making in not only digitizing services and making services more accessible and more transparent but this is one of the ways we are doing this,” the Minister said.

Barbados Chief Immigration Officer, Ms. Margaret Innis, who also came to Guyana to observe the process said the move between two countries deepens the friendship that has been growing over the years.

“This is indeed a moment for us of great collaboration and the great friendships over the years between Guyana and Barbados and as we deepen regional integration this is certainly a step in the right direction and we look forward to working with out colleagues in Guyana and move forward,” Ms. Innis stated.

The Minister of Innovation, Industry, Science and Technology of Barbados, Jonathan Reid was among the Barbadian passengers arriving on the flight.

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