Deputy Prime Minister Philip Davis highlighted the successes between the Bahamian and Haitian governments at the farewell reception for the Ambassador of the Republic of Haiti to the Commonwealth of the Bahamas Antonio Rodrigue.

After nearly five years as the local ambassador to Haiti, Mr. Rodrigue completed his last week of work in The Bahamas and is preparing to represent his country as ambassador to the Kingdom of Belgium.

Deputy Prime Minister Davis said last Thursday that the two countries have an ever increasing understanding of the benefits of forging relations and partnerships with countries and have completed many significant goals since coming together.

“Through your sound advice and your arduous efforts and after many years of undertaking, we finally arrived at agreements on very important bilateral matters,” he said.

“These agreements, which were signed in July 2014, include a framework agreement on bilateral cooperation, an agreement on the promotion and protection of investments and an agreement on technical cooperation in agriculture and fisheries.”

The deputy prime minister thanked Mr. Rodrigue for his dedication and assistance in keeping ties between the countries.

“Historically, Haiti and its nationals have been and continue to be a mainstay in the nature and development of The Bahamas,” he said.

“Relations with your country were formalised in 1977. In keeping with diplomatic representation from Haiti, we in The Bahamas have greatly benefited from your experience as a career diplomat. From the start of your tenure to the present, you have been called upon to act on behalf of your citizens on the ground and in our maritime territory. You have efficiently sought to address the challenges emanating from economic and political difficulties in your home country. The most evident difficulty is the influx of your nationals to our shores. This was amplified by the earthquake that occurred just months before your appointment to The Bahamas.”

Mr. Davis said Mr. Rodrigue’s passion was evident to all and wished him the best in his endeavours. He assured him that he would flourish as an ambassador wherever he is placed among the countries of the world.

“We saw your dedication to advance our bilateral trade relations through the assistance provided to a Haitian trade delegation visiting The Bahamas in April this year,” he said.

“Your effort will not long be forgotten. As you turn the page on your diplomatic career in a few days, so does your country with the holding of the long-awaited parliamentary elections only a few days ago, on August 9. We hope only for the best for both you and your country. In closing, Excellency, we have enjoyed the excellent working relationship with you and your staff at the embassy. The dynamics reflect the longstanding cordial relations between our countries. I am certain that this will continue with your successor.”