Saint Lucia & South Africa reaffirm diplomatic bond
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Saint Lucia & South Africa reaffirm diplomatic bond |
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Contact: Shannon Lebourne
Friday 3 June 2011 – Saint Lucia and South Africa are expected to benefit from the deepening of diplomatic relations with the appointment of Her Excellency Mrs Mathu Joyini as the non-resident High Commissioner to Saint Lucia.
The two countries have enjoyed very cordial relation ever since diplomatic ties were established in December 1996.
The new high commissioner says the Republic of South Africa is eager to pursue closer bilateral relations with the government and people of Saint Lucia.
“The South Africa High Commissioner appreciates the active participation of Saint Lucia during the technical expert meeting which was held in South Africa in February 2011 for the diaspora conference. I believe the relations between our two countries should translate in more cooperation and support for each others identified programme for mutual benefit.
“South Africans are also cognizant of the role which the Caribbean played in the fight against slavery, racism, and oppression and particularly the liberation of South Africans and we will be forever grateful for that.”
In welcoming the new South African diplomat, Governor General Her Excellency Dame Pearlette Louisy, reaffirmed Saint Lucia’s commitment to the diplomatic relationship shared with South Africa.
The Head of State also expressed confidence that the two countries can move past several constraints which had limited bilateral progress in the past.
“Geographic distance perhaps has placed constraints on our bilateral relations, but I hope we can negotiate these barriers and work together on those areas of mutual interest that you have identified—the eradication of poverty, the promotion of sustainable development and the attainment of peace and stability. I hope the African Diaspora Summit scheduled for 2012 will set the stage for that type of closer bilateral relationship which will translate to more cooperation and support of each other's identified programmes for mutual benefit.”
Her Excellency Mrs Mathu Joyini says the Republic of South Africa looks forward to Saint Lucia’s participation during the African Diaspora Summits scheduled for 2012. The new High Commissioner officially presented her credentials to the Governor General on Thursday June 2, 2011. |
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