Forty-four years ago, on 7 April 1977, Grenada and Venezuela established formal diplomatic relations. This was cemented with the establishment of diplomatic embassies with resident ambassadors in Caracas and St George’s.
The past 44-years have been characterised by mutual respect, friendly relations, and technical cooperation that have consistently grown over time, with numerous projects being undertaken by the Government and people of Venezuela for the benefit of the Government and people of Grenada. These projects include the Venezuelan multi-project including the Tanteen pavillion, the St George’s Market Square, and the Forde Bridge. In addition, the Community Centre at Mt Toute and the La Calome Housing Project have provided a much-needed recreation centre for Grenada’s youth and affordable housing to meet needs of many Grenadians.
These projects and others, have cemented the relations Grenada has with Venezuela. Perhaps the most memorable is the work done on the second phase of the General Hospital, undertaken together with the Republic of Cuba.
As we celebrate this 44th anniversary of diplomatic relations, we are cognisant of the challenges created by the Covid-19 pandemic and the generosity of the Venezuelan Government in using its own aircraft to distribute PCR tests, medical equipment and personnel to Grenada and the other OECS member states. Venezuela has also generously pledged $200,000 for the purchase of Covid-19 vaccines for the OECS countries.
Grenada looks forward to further collaboration, not only at the bilateral level, but also through the Bolivarian Alliance for the Peoples of our America (ALBA) and the Community of Latin American and Caribbean States (CELAC), as we face many challenges together.
GIS
