Appointment of His Excellency Barry N. Griffin as Ambassador-at-Large for Trade & Global Markets

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
19 October 2026

NASSAU, THE BAHAMAS — The Ministry of Foreign Affairs is pleased to announce the appointment of His Excellency Barry N. Griffin as Ambassador-at-Large for Trade and Global Markets, with the rank of Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary.

His Excellency formally presented his credentials to Her Excellency the Most Honourable Dame Cynthia A. Pratt, Governor-General of the Commonwealth of The Bahamas, on 19 October 2026, at Government House in Nassau, The Bahamas.

In this capacity, His Excellency will lead the Government’s economic diplomacy agenda, working closely with relevant ministries, The Bahamas’ diplomatic missions and the private sector to strengthen international commercial partnerships, expand market access and unlock new opportunities for Bahamian businesses and industries.

The appointment underscores the Government’s commitment to positioning economic diplomacy as a central pillar of The Bahamas’ foreign policy, ensuring that its international relationships translate into tangible opportunities for trade, investment and national development. Particular emphasis will be placed on diversifying trade, promoting Bahamian goods and services internationally, and deepening engagement with established and emerging markets.

His Excellency currently serves as Trade Commissioner, Chairman of The Bahamas Trade Commission and The Bahamas’ Chief Trade Negotiator. An attorney, businessman and former Vice President of the Senate, he brings extensive experience in public service, trade negotiations and private enterprise, having played an important role in advancing The Bahamas’ trade agenda and strengthening international commercial relationships.

The appointment comes as The Bahamas hosts Diplomatic Week 2026, chaired by His Excellency, which brings together members of the diplomatic corps, government representatives and private-sector leaders to strengthen international cooperation and explore new opportunities for trade, investment and economic growth. The programme provides an important platform to deepen engagement with international partners and advance discussions on emerging industries, sustainable development and new avenues for Bahamian trade.

His Excellency’s appointment further reinforces the Government’s ambition to connect The Bahamas’ diplomatic engagement with its economic priorities, moving beyond dialogue to foster meaningful commercial opportunities and partnerships that deliver lasting benefits for the Bahamian people.

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs looks forward to His Excellency’s continued leadership in advancing The Bahamas’ trade interests, strengthening its presence in global markets and supporting a more diversified, resilient and prosperous national economy.

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H.E. Mr. Barry Griffin, pictured left in photo with H.E. The Most Honourable Cynthia Pratt, Governor of the Commonwealth of The Bahamas after presenting his credentials at Government House, Nassau, The Bahamas, today 19th October 2026.