H.E. Juliette Bynoe-Sutherland, the High Commissioner of Barbados to Ghana, visited Hon. Abla Dzifa Gomashie, the Minister for Tourism, Culture, and Creative Arts, for a courtesy meeting aimed at exploring avenues for enhancing bilateral cooperation in cultural matters. This meeting represented a pivotal move toward fortifying cultural connections between Barbados and Ghana, focusing on potential collaborative efforts within the tourism, culture, and creative arts sectors.
During the discussion, the High Commissioner underscored the significance of cultural diplomacy, emphasizing the mutual advantages that could stem from joint initiatives to promote the rich cultural heritages of both nations.
The Hon. Minister expressed keen interest in learning from Barbados’ successful strategies in cultural tourism and the development of creative industries. The Ambassador, in turn, pointed out the value of engaging the African diaspora in Barbados and the Caribbean as a means to deepen collaboration with Ghana.
Both parties concurred on the necessity of establishing a structured framework for cooperation, which would include drafting a memorandum of understanding (MoU) to guide future initiatives and exchanges.
This courtesy visit between H.E. the Ambassador of Barbados and the Hon. Minister for Tourism, Culture, and Creative Arts highlighted the potential for enhanced cultural relations between the two nations. The dialogue concentrated on key collaborative areas in the arts, tourism, and creative industries, aimed at fostering a deeper understanding and appreciation of each country’s cultural heritage. Both sides expressed optimism about the future of this partnership, which is expected to bolster cultural diplomacy between Barbados and Ghana.
The meeting concluded with the following recommendations:
1. Formalize the cooperation through a memorandum of understanding (MoU) that outlines the areas of collaboration.
2. Launch cultural exchange programs and collaborative art exhibitions to strengthen connections between the peoples of both nations.
In attendance were Mr. Phil Philips, Commercial and Cultural Attaché at the Barbados High Commission, and Mr. Divine Owusu-Ansah, Director for Culture and Creative Arts at the Ministry of Tourism, Culture, and Creative Arts.
