WASHINGTON, United States (CMC) — Antigua and Barbuda says it now has visa-free entry to 136 countries, following Wednesday’s signing of an abolition of visa requirements between the country and the Ukraine.

The agreement was signed at the Ukrainian Embassy in Washington, DC by Antigua and Barbuda’s Ambassador to the United States of America, Sir Ronald Sanders, and his Ukrainian counterpart Ambassador, Valeriy Chaly, after several months of negotiations.

Under the terms of the agreement, holders of Antigua and Barbuda and Ukrainian passports will be able to enter each other’s countries on holiday or to conduct business without the need for visas.

“While the agreement has been signed today, there will be a lapse of 30 days before it becomes effective, in order to allow immigration officials in both countries to institute the arrangement,” Sanders said.

“Other agencies, such as embassies in other countries, airlines and cruise ships, will also have to be informed to facilitate the ease of travel envisaged by the abolition of visa requirements,” he added.

Ronald said Ukraine is the second largest country in Europe after Russia and has the seventh largest population at 45 million people.

“Therefore, there is a huge potential for Antigua and Barbuda to attract tourists and to explore investment,” adding that “there are already chartered flights from Ukraine to Caribbean destinations, particularly the Dominican Republic.

“With the necessary marketing and promotion, including links to travel agents and tour operators, Antigua and Barbuda could benefit from a share of the Ukraine tourist market,” Sanders said.

He said the visa-free travel to 136 countries “enhances the value and standing of the Antigua and Barbuda passport.”

“That is why we vet applicants for our citizenship and passports so diligently and carefully,” Sir Ronald said. “Visa free travel enhances economic opportunities for the country.”