Antigua and Barbuda and the Dominican Republic to Strengthen Ties

Her Excellency Yolanda Alexandra Victoria, the newly appointed Ambassador of the Dominican Republic to Antigua and Barbuda, has expressed her commitment to further strengthening the already strong relationship between Santo Domingo and St. John’s.

Ambassador Victoria made the remarks during a recent courtesy call on Prime Minister the Hon. Gaston Browne, accompanied by senior government officials, including Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Clarence E. Pilgrim, and Director of Foreign Affairs, Ms. Ann-Marie Layne.

Expressing her gratitude for the warm welcome, Ambassador Victoria highlighted the Dominican Republic’s determination to deepen its ties with Antigua and Barbuda.

“It is a privilege to represent the Dominican Republic here in Antigua and Barbuda, and I am eager to work closely with both the government and the people of Antigua and Barbuda to strengthen our diplomatic, economic, and cultural relationships,” Ambassador Victoria said.

Prime Minister Browne, in his remarks, emphasized the long-standing and robust partnership between the two nations, reiterating the importance of continuing to build on these ties.

“Our countries have a history of collaboration and mutual respect. It is my hope that this relationship will continue to flourish in the years ahead,” Prime Minister Browne stated.

A major topic of discussion was the potential for enhancing educational cooperation, particularly through student exchanges.

Prime Minister Browne suggested exploring collaborative opportunities at the University of the West Indies (UWI) Five Islands Campus and proposed establishing joint academic programmes between UWI and universities in the Dominican Republic.

“The exchange of students and the development of joint academic initiatives could greatly contribute to the growth of both our nations, while also fostering deeper people-to-people connections,” Prime Minister Browne noted.

In addition to education, economic cooperation was also highlighted. Prime Minister Browne pointed out the frequent movement of people between Antigua and Barbuda and the Dominican Republic, noting the potential for expanding trade, particularly through a free trade agreement. Such an agreement, he believes, would benefit both nations, enhance the flow of goods, and contribute to regional food security.

“By exploring ways to import essential goods from the Dominican Republic, we can work together to bolster food security and create a more resilient future for our citizens,” the Prime Minister said.

Both Ambassador Victoria and Prime Minister Browne expressed optimism for the future of the relationship between the two nations, recognizing numerous opportunities for collaboration and growth that could lead to greater prosperity for both Antigua and Barbuda and the Dominican Republic.