Dominica: Prime Minister Dr. Roosevelt Skerrit welcomed the Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of Spain to the Commonwealth of Dominica – Jose Maria Fernandez Lopez de Turiso.
PM Skerrit welcomed him to Dominica and appreciated their long-standing partnership with Spain, which was established back in 1980. He underlined commitment of Dominica towards strengthening their bilateral cooperation. They also aim to work together in various sectors especially in areas of tourism, education and trade facilitation.
Ambassador Turiso conveyed greeting from the King of Spain Felipe VI and the Government of Spain to the Dominica federation. Turiso took pledge on behalf of Spain to support development priorities of Dominica and highlighted keen interests of Spain in expanding their collaboration, especially in education and tourism sector.
The new Ambassador to the Commonwealth of Dominica has officially presented his credentials to the President of Dominica – Sylvanie Burton, upon his arrival. The ceremony held officially at the State House and marked the beginning of a diplomatic tenure.
President Burton and Ambassador Turiso strengthened their commitment towards expanding their bond in areas of trade, taking along the cultural exchange and sustainable development.
During his arrival for the meeting, Ambassador Turiso grabbed the privilege and opened the accredited letters. He said that it is an honour for him to present the letters of credence and the letters of recall of his predecessor.
Turiso stated that on behalf of his majesty, the King of Spain – Felipe VI he assured that he will dedicate all his efforts to improve their bilateral relations and bonds of cooperation between the two countries, which was formally established 45 years ago.
Ambassador Turiso further stated that he is convinced that he would be able to accomplish the mission, which is modest. He said that the King of Spain has trust in him. He thinks that it would be a misconception to think that Spanish foreign policy is concerned only with Latin American countries. He confirmed that Spain is maintaining centuries old ties with the Caribbean nations.
The have enormous social and cultural ties keeping them intact and economic ties that are trading investment security and a global agenda with the Caribbean. He emphasised that it is not a coincidence that Spain is the European country and it is surprising that without having any kind of territorial responsibilities, Spain holds the largest diplomatic representation of the Caribbean.
Furthermore, Spain aims to increase its presence and become a serious and solid interlocutor for the Caribbean nations and especially for Dominica.
However, Dominica and Spain have a many common areas, which certainly aid in the forging of partnerships and stronger links. Both countries share commitment to multilateralism and to promote sustainable development.