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Last Updated: Feb 6, 2017 - 2:32:04 PM |
 Nassau, The Bahamas - The commitment by the Republic of Turkey to the further development of the Caribbean Community (CARICOM), of which The Bahamas is a member, was acknowledged by His Excellency Sir Arthur Foulkes, Governor General.
He made the statement during the Presentation of Credentials by His Excellency Hasan Servet Öktem, Ambassador of the Republic of Turkey to the Commonwealth of the Bahamas at Government House on Thursday, November 14, 2013.
The Bahamas and Turkey established diplomatic relations in 1974. Both countries have maintained a cordial relationship at the political level within the sphere of international organizations such as the United Nations.
“We are committed to strengthening that relationship,” Sir Arthur said.
Over the past three years Turkey has established four embassies in Peru, Ecuador, Colombia and Santo Domingo. Another embassy will be opened in Panama by year’s end and one is being considered in a CARICOM country.
In this vein, Sir Arthur thanked the Government of Turkey for its commitment to The Bahamas and the region, particularly CARICOM States.
He noted Turkey’s interest in the region especially with the establishment of the first CARICOM-Turkey Consultation and Cooperation Meeting, which is to be held in Istanbul, and an estimated two million dollars contributed to the CARICOM Development Fund.
Sir Arthur also pointed out that the economy of Turkey continues to thrive, despite the global economic crisis; Turkey is ranked as one of the top 10 tourism destinations in the world.
Turkey is the world’s 17th and Europe’s sixth biggest economy. Its tourism revenue last year reached over $25 billion US dollars
“Both of our countries are blessed to possess a vibrant and lucrative tourism industry. However, as The Bahamas seeks to strengthen historical and cultural tourism, and diversify its economy, we welcome continued economic and technical cooperation between our two countries,” he said.
He recognized Ambassador Öktem, 60, as a career diplomat; whose experience and expertise in the sphere of international relations is noteworthy.
“I am confident that your accreditation to The Bahamas will renew a spirit of bilateral cooperation,” Sir Arthur said.
© Copyright 2013 by thebahamasweekly.com
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