Hours after being sworn in as Deputy Governor General, Dame Marguerite Pindling on Thursday, welcomed the country’s newest foreign diplomat to Government House.

Italian Ambassador to The Bahamas Claudio Bisognerio presented his letters of credence to Dame Marguerite during a brief ceremony in the state room of Government House.

Ambassador Bisogneiro’s appointment to The Bahamas follows his most recent stint as a diplomat in the United States.

In presenting his letters, he spoke of the linkage between Italy and The Bahamas that dates back to 1492 when Italian born Christopher Columbus arrived on San Salvador.

Ambassador Bisognerio also pledged his country’s support for assisting The Bahamas with economic growth and educational opportunities.

“The common traits of our countries and the dispositions of our peoples also allow broadening and expanding our cultural and economic relations,” the ambassador said. “The Bahamas and Italy are both bounded by seas and the joy of amazing landscapes known the world over.”

Dame Marguerite accepted the ambassador’s letters and welcomed him to the country.

She also extended both herself and her office to the ambassador to help ensure that his tenure in The Bahamas is productive.

“I must extend the gratitude of The Bahamas for Italy’s continuing support for The Bahamas’ accession to the World Trade Organization (WTO), Dame Marguerite said. “I am convinced that during your tenure, there will be substantive enhancement of Bahamas-Italy relations. To this end, please be assured that in the execution of your duties, wherever possible, you have my full support and that of my Office.”

Earlier Thursday morning Chief Justice Sir Michael Barnett administered the oath of office to Dame Marguerite during a brief ceremony before a small group of guests.

Governor General Sir Arthur Foulkes is currently out of the country.