The Bahamas and the Federative Republic of Brazil are seeking to forge closer ties in the areas of trade and investments.
Governor General Sir Arthur Foulkes said as much during the Occasion of the Presentation of Letters of Credence by His Excellency Carlos Eduardo Sette Camara Da Fonseca Costa, Ambassador of the Federative Republic of Brazil to the Commonwealth of The Bahamas, during a ceremony at Government House last Thursday.

“The Bahamas reiterates its great satisfaction at having the Embassy of Brazil in our capital as a symbol of our cordial and broad bilateral relations,” Sir Arthur said.

“We are also pleased with the leadership of Brazil in these challenging times, not only through the United Nations but also through our growing community of Latin American and Caribbean States.”

Brazil is the seventh strongest economy in the world, diversifying exports in manufactures and food with a population of about 200 million people.

The country is the world’s biggest exporter of iron ore and manufactures in Latin America.

Brazil is also one of the world’s leading producers of sugar, soybean and other grains, and boasts of its agriculture having the highest technological standards, being totally mechanised.
“The Bahamas is seeking to take advantage of Brazil’s increasing capacity to diversify its economy, the governor general said.

“We look forward to further consolidating bilateral relations and exploring avenues for more direct trade and investments. We also welcome the contribution of the Brazilian Cooperation Agency to the technical development of The Bahamas and the region.”
Sir Arthur shared that The Bahamas is also exploring ways to diversify its economy; by way of renewed commitment to the development of modern agriculture.
“The establishment of The Bahamas Agricultural and Marine Science Research Institute in North Andros on November 2013 emphasises the importance we attach to these industries,” he said.
In the areas of sports, he noted that The Bahamas would be hosting the IAAF World Relays Bahamas in May 24 to 25, 2014 again in 2015.

“We anticipate this to be a grand event for competition but also for camaraderie and hospitality,” Sir Arthur said.
He also said that The Bahamas is looking forward to joining and supporting Brazil in the FIFA World Cup and the Olympic Games to be held 2014 and 2016, respectively.

“The time is upon us as regards the first and all of us hope that Brazil will enjoy success in staging the 2014 World Cup this summer.”

Regarding Ambassador Costa’s experiences serving in Latin America, Europe, the greater Middle East and Central and South Asia, Sir Arthur said it should be of great benefit as both countries seek to strengthen relations.

“We look forward to working with you in the realisation of your expressed wish to enhance strategic cooperation between The Bahamas and Brazil. Please be assured of my fullest support and that of my office wherever possible in the discharge of your mission,” Sir Arthur said.