France’s newly appointed Ambassador to Antigua and Barbuda, Her Excellency Marie-Noëlle Duris, formally presented her credentials during her first official visit to St John’s on Monday.

Ambassador Duris presented her credentials to Governor General’s Deputy Sir Clare Roberts at Government House before holding separate courtesy meetings with Prime Minister Gaston Browne and Minister of Foreign Affairs E.P. Chet Greene.

Welcoming the ambassador, Sir Clare highlighted the longstanding relationship between Antigua and Barbuda and France, noting that France was among the first countries to establish diplomatic relations with the twin-island nation following independence.

He said the relationship extends beyond traditional diplomacy because France, through its Caribbean territories of Guadeloupe and Martinique, is also one of Antigua and Barbuda’s closest regional neighbours.

“Through Martinique and Guadeloupe, we share the Caribbean Sea, a regional identity, common interests and many of the same challenges and opportunities,” Sir Clare said.

He described the relationship between the two countries as one founded on mutual respect, friendship and cooperation.

Antigua and Barbuda, he said, values France’s longstanding contribution to regional development, particularly in civil aviation, healthcare, trade, military cooperation and national development.

Sir Clare also recalled the assistance France provided through the European Union between 2009 and 2010, which supported Antigua and Barbuda during the economic difficulties caused by the global financial crisis.

Prime Minister Browne and Foreign Affairs Minister Greene similarly welcomed Ambassador Duris and reaffirmed the Government’s commitment to strengthening cooperation with France during her tenure.

The ambassador’s accreditation is expected to provide further opportunities for collaboration between Antigua and Barbuda, France and the neighbouring French Caribbean territories.