The Tribune

PRIME Minister Perry Christie yesterday highlighted the importance of tourism to The Bahamas during a visit to Mexico.

Mr Christie was addressing a meeting of heads of state from Mexico and the Caribbean, and hailed tourism as “our industry that provides not only economic development but also sustainable development”.

He said: “Tourism in The Bahamas has seen growth in the expansion of its resort and casino facility with diverse offerings like Atlantis Paradise Island, that offers products and services for family, business, sports and entertainment events and the soon to be opened $3bn Baha Mar Resort that will host the largest casino in the Caribbean with 3,000 rooms, making it the largest single hotel project in this region.

“In addition, The Bahamas has been able to identify key sectors in its tourism product that will generate further development and economic growth in the family islands such as high-end boutique resorts, bed and breakfasts, fishing lodges and exclusive villas that will present a unique experience to the consumer of the un-spoilt way of life that they will come into contact with. I would like to take this opportunity to welcome the investors of Mexico to consider The Bahamas as their destination of choice to invest in tourism.”

Mr Christie also urged Mexico to use its position in the G20 and OECD to advocate for financial centres such as The Bahamas to have a seat at the table, and welcome a collaboration agreement in agriculture between Mexico and the Inter-American Institute for Co-operation in Agriculture.

He said: “This is of keen interest to me as in the Bahamas my Government has committed to and is in the process of developing the Bahamas Agriculture and Marine Institute which will be the central point for agriculture research, education and economic development in the Bahamas.”

The Prime Minister also highlighted infrastructure developments in The Bahamas - including the $150m road project that was the source of much criticism when he was in Opposition.

He said: “The Bahamas has committed itself to the further development of its infrastructure and has through the completion of the $150m road project and underground utility infrastructure that has improved the flow of traffic and water systems throughout the city of Nassau on the island of New Providence.

“Another project of note is the award winning Lynden Pindling International Airport that has become the most modern in the Caribbean.This outstanding facility has become the focal point that will allow for connectivity to the region through direct flights that as a part of our seamless travel campaign.”

He advocated direct flights from Mexico to The Bahamas.