Barbados and Cuba’s 50 -year diplomatic relationship, based on unity, technical cooperation and respect, is poised to be further strengthened in areas of mutual interest.
This was the focus of discussion when Minister of Foreign Affairs and Foreign Trade, Kerrie Symmonds, was paid a courtesy call by the new resident Cuban Ambassador to Barbados, Yanet Stable Cárdenas, at his office in Culloden Road, St. Michael, today.
Minister Symmonds welcomed the Ambassador and highlighted the harmonious relationship the two countries shared over the years and expressed great interest in strengthening the existing bond, especially in the areas of trade, health and sports.
Ambassador Cárdenas, who presented her credentials to the President of Barbados, Her Excellency the Most Honourable Dame Sandra Mason, on March 7, thanked Mr. Symmonds for his warm welcome and for Barbados’ continued support.
Ms. Cárdenas said she was happy that Barbados was her first diplomatic posting, because the people are so friendly and it feels like home.
She stressed that she looks forward to working closely with the government to achieve the agreed upon proposals coming out of the Barbados-Cuba bilateral meeting held last year in December.
The Foreign Affairs Minister and the Cuban Ambassador also discussed further collaboration in the areas of education, food security, culture, tourism and disaster mitigation.
Also present at the courtesy call was Barbados’ Ambassador to CARICOM, David Comissiong; Permanent Secretary (ag) Joy-Ann Skinner, and Senior Foreign Service Officer, Sandra Gittens. Barbados and Cuba established diplomatic relations on December 8, 1972.