visit the once-divided country.

The move covers both tourists and business visitors, for up to 90 days.

Home Affairs and Public Safety Minister Paula Cox said: "I'm delighted with this new agreement.

"It brings to 19 the total number of countries around the world that we can visit without the need for visas.

Ms Cox added that negotiations were still underway with Spain -- a European Union member -- and Austria, which is outside the EU umbrella.