KINGSTON, Jamaica – Minister of Tourism, Edmund Bartlett, has met with US Ambassador Luis Moreno for discussions on strengthening relations between Jamaica and the United States in the area of tourism.

During the meeting at the New Kingston offices of the Ministry of Tourism on Tuesday, they had preliminary discussions on the prospects for preclearance operations privileges to be granted to Jamaica.

Preclearance allows US Border inspection and clearance of commercial airline passengers and their goods, and is typically the same inspection which a traveller would undergo at a US port of entry. Passengers who go through preclearance do not have to undergo a second inspection on arriving in the US.

Bartlett strongly believes it will be beneficial to the tourism industry, as it will, among other things, facilitate ease of travel for passengers.

“it is crucial for us to strengthen the relationship between Jamaica and the United States.  I am convinced that once this is done it will help to drive investment in the sector and open doors for the entry of more US brands in the local tourism industry.”

Among the other issues discussed were efforts to further boost visitor safety and steps to enhance the Tourism Courtesy Corp.

Balford Henry