PM Douglas with Ambassador Jorge Zubiaur
Basseterre, St. Kitts – Nevis
February 17, 2013 (CUOPM)
The Federation of St. Kitts and Nevis and the Republic of Cuba has solidified the relationship between the two Caribbean countries.
“I want to thank you very much for pursuing the mandate of your government in securing a greater enhancement in the relationship between St. Kitts and Nevis and the Republic of Cuba. Cuba has been a very dear friend to the people of St. Kitts and Nevis,” said Prime Minister Douglas to His Excellency Jorge Zubiaur, Cuba’s Resident Ambassador to the twin-island Federation, who was on his farewell courtesy call.
Dr. Douglas told the Cuban diplomat, that the Government and People of St. Kitts and Nevis have been dear friends to the Government and People of Cuba.
“I think during your stay here, you have seen a consolidation of that friendship. You have been truly an inspiration in ensuring that the relationship will move from strength to strength,” said Prime Minister Douglas.
He pointed to the enormous benefits that have accrued to both nations mutually with the utmost of respect.
“Our systems of Government, our different agendas, our mandates, carried out with full respect despite our different systems of Government is an indication that can truly be great friends,” said Prime Minister Douglas, who on his own behalf and that of the entire Cabinet of Ministers, the Parliament and the People wished Ambassador the very best.
“As you move on to another station to pursue your duties, we wish you well,” said Prime Minister Douglas, who also asked the Cuban official to personally convey best wishes to the President of Cuba, His Excellency Mr. Raoul Castro and former President, His Excellency Dr. Fidel Castro.
Ambassador Zubiaur in response thanked Prime Minister Douglas and his Government for the support and friendship over the years.
“I want to thank you and your country in particular for the assistance that I especially, have had here. You always have had an answer to my questions and demands. I wish you the very best,” said the Cuban Ambassador.
Ambassador Zubiaur, who leaves St. Kitts and Nevis in a few days also paid farewell visits to Governor General, His Excellency, Sir Edmund Lawrence; Deputy Prime Minister, Hon. Dr. Earl Asim Martin; Minister of Foreign Affairs, the Hon. Patrice Nisbett; Minister of Education, Sen. the Hon. Nigel Carty; Minister of Youth, Hon. Glenn Phillip; Minister of Health, Hon. Marcella Liburd; Cabinet Secretary, Mr. Joseph Edmeade; Ambassador Astona Browne and Chief Secretary and Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of foreign Affairs, Mr. Elvis Newton.