Team Herald
PANJIM: Keith Vaz, the former UK Minister and the country’s longest serving British-Asian MP, feels that the State should use the vibrant Goan diaspora to better promote Goa as a tourist destination.
If you enjoyed reading this article, you can help support our journalism by adding OHeraldo as a preferred source.
“I would like to see the appointment of ‘diaspora champions’ in countries with large Goan populations, such as Canada, the UK, Kuwait, Abu Dhabi and Australia,” he proposed in an exclusive interaction with O Heraldo. With over 10,000 Goans residing in many of these countries, Vaz sees this as a grassroots effort that could complement official tourism initiatives.
“I haven’t discussed this with the government yet, but it’s something that could be done with short-term commitments. The idea is to gather people together and ask, ‘What can we do this year to promote Goa?’ This approach would foster relationships beyond government institutions, and more needs to be done to truly showcase Goa,” he said.
The former British MP, who loves to stay connected with his Goan roots, also expressed strong support for Dabolim Airport to remain operational, emphasising its significance in maintaining a connection with South Goa, which he holds dear to his heart.
Vaz spoke fondly of the personal connection he feels when landing at Dabolim. “There’s an amazing feeling when you land at Dabolim Airport, hop into a taxi or car, and head towards South Goa. That feeling is more about the heart than the mind,” he remarked, underscoring the emotional bond he has with the airport and its surroundings.
While acknowledging the growing presence of Mopa Airport, Vaz shared his perspective on Goa’s evolving air connectivity.
“I’ve not used Mopa yet, but I did drop my son there. The roads leading to Mopa are incredible, probably the best roads in Goa,” Vaz said. However, he believes both airports can coexist and thrive. “This great State can certainly manage two functioning airports, but I am disappointed that direct flights are not arriving at Dabolim. We must preserve Dabolim and ensure it continues to reflect its heritage and tradition.”
Vaz also highlighted the challenges that arise from the increasing crowds in North Goa, particularly along its popular beach belt. “The fact is, it gets very crowded up there (the North Goa beach belt). A lot of people were enjoying themselves at the beach that I used to go to earlier. However, the beach has changed and that’s a planning issue that the people need to be aware of,” he commented. Reflecting on the contrast between North and South Goa, he added, “South Goa remains a different experience. For me, it’s more of an emotional connection than anything else.”
Vaz also took a moment to commend the role of journalism in keeping politicians accountable. “I want to pay tribute to the work that Herald has done over the past 125 years,” he said. With a candid smile, he added, “Of course, you upset politicians. I’m a politician, and I’m always upset with newspapers!”
