New Canadian High Commissioner to Dominica pledges Canada’s continued support for the Caribbean Region
Roseau, Dominica – February 1, 2010…… President of Dominica, His Excellency, Dr. Nicholas Liverpool D.A.H. O.C.C has commended the Government of Canada for its prompt response to the plight of the people of Haiti in the aftermath of the magnitude 7.0 earthquake which devastated the Caribbean island leaving thousands dead and countless homeless.
On the occasion of the Presentation of Credentials by new Canadian High Commissioner to Dominica Her Excellency, Ruth Archibald last week,
Dr Nicholas Liverpool said:
“ Your Excellency, I wish to take this opportunity on behalf of the people and Government of the Commonwealth of Dominica and on my own behalf, to complement the Government of Canada for responding so promptly to the plight of our sister country, Haiti and for supplementing its aid in Haiti to address that country’s immediate needs.”
The President also welcomed the news that “ the programming for doubling of developmental assistance to the Caribbean Community, as announced by your Prime Minister in July 2007, is now coming into place , and the proposal by your Government to create new opportunities in areas of shared interest including a mutually beneficial free trade agreement between Canada and CARICOM will soon become a reality”.
Dr. Liverpool also noted the significant contribution Canada has made to Dominica’s development since the two countries established diplomatic relations in 1979.
“ Your Excellency, since the development of diplomatic relations with Canada in 1979, Dominica has benefited and continues to benefit from significant assistance offered by your Government through the Canadian International Development Agency(CIDA), the Canadian Francophone Scholarship Programme, the Canadian Seasonal Farm Workers Programme, and the CARICOM–Canada Joint Trade and Economic Committee, among others. We also note the contribution of the Joint OECS Mission in Canada in serving Dominica’s interests in your country.”
In her remarks, Her Excellency, Ruth Archibald reiterated Canada’s commitment to its long-standing relationship with Dominica.
“ Finally in closing your Excellency, let me just reiterate the long-standing and deeply felt relationship that Canada enjoys with the Commonwealth of Dominica as well as with its fellow members of the Caribbean Community. We trust that our mutually beneficial relations will not only continue but will be reinvigorated in the years to come,” H. E Ruth Archibald stated.
