Prime Minister Dr. The Right Honourable Keith Mitchell, in receiving the Ambassador of the Republic of Turkey to the Caribbean, early on Wednesday, was given some “welcomed” news of aid packages for Grenada.
His Excellency, Ambassador Aydin Evirgen, who was recently appointed to the region, at the same time that a Turkish Embassy was opened in Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic, conveyed to the Grenadian Prime Minister that Turkey, through its International Development Agency, has committed to support 6 projects in Grenada.
The projects include several very “urgent and necessary” fire trucks and an ambulance, to aid in the event of any disaster. Turkey has also pledged to fully furnish, or outfit, 5 of our nation’s schools; provide tractors to aid in our Agricultural development; and provide equipment for electrical testing and installation. Specific local initiatives in Information Communication Technology and Tourism will also be supported by Turkey.
With regard to Foreign Affairs, Turkey has offered to establish with Caricom countries, and fully fund for 5 years, a joint Embassy that will advance both regions’ interests. Turkey is also looking to appoint an Honorary Consul in Grenada.
Turkey has already signed a protocol agreement with Caricom to establish a joint business council that will advance tourism and investments for the region.
According to Ambassador Evirgen, his nation, which will assume the upcoming residency of the G-20, wants “to fully develop cooperation with Caribbean countries, and to represent Caricom’s interests on the G-20.”
Prime Minister Dr. Keith Mitchell thanked the nation, through its Ambassador, for all of the support offered, particularly for the fire trucks, which the Prime Minister deems crucial to our ability to mitigate disasters. Prime Minister Mitchell also conveyed his desire to work along with his Caricom counterparts in enhancing relationships with Turkey.
Turkey, vying for a Seat on the United Nation’s Security Council this year, has been campaigning ardently for Caricom’s support.
GIS
