NASSAU, Bahamas – The Bahamas has asked the Republic of Colombia for support in a number of United Nations initiatives, as both countries seek to strengthen diplomatic relations. Governor-General, His Excellency Arthur Hanna, made the appeal as His Excellency Ventura Emilio Diaz-Mejia presented his Letters of Credence as Ambassador of the Republic of Colombia, at Government House, July 23.
The Bahamas wants Colombia to support its candidacies to the UN Economic and Social Council; the Council of the International Maritime Organization, Category C; and Presidency of the Thirty-Fifth General Conference of the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization.
“The Bahamas values the cordial relations between our two countries and looks forward to the deepening and the diversification of our relationship,”Governor General Hanna said. He acknowledged that The Bahamas and Colombia “share a wide base of linkages founded on common interests” and the diplomatic relations that followed “has consolidated the continued common understanding.
Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs the Hon Brent Symonette (right), accepts the credentials of His Excellency Emilio Diaz-Mejia, as Ambassador of the Republic of Colombia, during a courtesy call.
(BIS Photo/Kristaan Ingraham)
“The Bahamas, as has the rest of the word, but particularly the Caribbean nations, has taken keen note of your country’s proactive engagement in the well-being of the governments and peoples that comprise the Association of Caribbean States, as a result of the reform initiatives Colombia is actively seeking to implement in that body, ”said Mr Hanna. He told the Ambassador that bilaterally, these initiatives could bring to fruition his personal pledge to increase the relations of both countries in overcoming illegal drug trafficking and crime. Replied the Ambassador:
“Colombia and the Commonwealth of The Bahamas have maintained, with mutual respect, excellent relations in all areas, and that is why I personally wish they can be increased.
“Colombia will make every possible effort to give to your government the required support in vital areas as it has occurred in the past. I am convinced that in the future these will be broadened.“Be sure that loyalty, respect, and sincerity will remain principles and essential values of our cordial relations.
