Agreement on partial visa-free travel between Guyana-Brazil
Stabroek News
May 10, 2003
The Guyana government has approved a request by the Brazilian government for the partial abolition of visas for the citizens of both countries.
The abolition of the visa requirement would allow for travel not exceeding 90 days in the first instance and cumulatively upon renewal, 180 days in either country for non-employment related activities.
Cabinet has also approved the request of the Brazilian government to establish a Brazilian honorary consulate in Lethem.
Cabinet Secretary Dr Roger Luncheon told reporters on Wednesday that the visa abolition sought by the Brazilian government was a partial one and extended specifically to travellers from both states using their national passports for the purposes of tourism, leisure and visiting.
He said that the abolition of the visa requirement was one of a number of other diplomatic engagements between the countries.
Other administrative matters being dealt with include collaboration in law enforcement and mutual legal assistance.
Luncheon recalled Brazil's accession to Guyana's request to establish an honorary consulate in Boa Vista; the much earlier establishment of bilateral agreement on air traffic and more recently the agreement on land transport for passenger and cargo.
Giving an update on local developments in relation to the land transport agreement, Luncheon said according to Home Affairs Minister Ronald Gajraj a marketing survey had been completed and a technical team had identified areas along the way from Lethem to Georgetown for signs and signals and various other devices to support regularisation of traffic.
He said the Finance Minis-try and the Guyana Revenue Authority and Customs and Trade Administration were complying with the terms of the land and transport agreement.
Discussions should by now be concluded with the insurance companies to put in place mechanisms allowing vehicles to go between the two countries.
