Dr. Danny Johnson and Mr. Donald Demeritte receive their official commissions as Ambassador
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
11 NOVEMBER, 2016
NASSAU, THE BAHAMAS — Former Cabinet Minister Dr. Danny Johnson has been appointed the Bahamas’ next High Commissioner to the United Kingdom, while financial services executive Donald Demeritte will serve as the country’s Ambassador to Belgium and the European Union.
The two diplomats were formally commissioned at Government House on Tuesday 11 November, in a ceremony attended by family members, friends, colleagues and government officials, marking the beginning of their new assignments representing The Bahamas on the international stage.
Dr. Johnson, a former Minister of Youth, Sports and Culture, described his appointment as a deeply meaningful milestone, emphasising that he viewed the honour as extending beyond personal achievement. He paid tribute to those who came before him, particularly individuals whose sacrifices, struggles and contributions helped create opportunities for future generations, despite receiving little recognition.
“This is a red-letter day. And there’s nothing better for us as a group, not me, us as a group,” Dr. Johnson said.
For Dr. Johnson, the appointment represents not only a personal accomplishment but also recognition of the many Bahamians whose determination and resilience helped pave the way.
“This is for them,” he said.
Mr. Demeritte , meanwhile, acknowledged the legacy of Bahamian trailblazers whose achievements laid the foundation for opportunities such as his own. He stressed that the responsibility of representing the country abroad demands the highest standards of professionalism and performance.
“Nothing else than excellent is expected. We have to be excellent on the job,” he declared.
Describing excellence as the expectation, he expressed confidence that he would meet the demands of his new role. He also conveyed his gratitude to Prime Minister Philip Davis for the confidence and trust placed in him through the appointment.
As the two appointees prepare to assume their diplomatic responsibilities, Charmaine Williams, Head of Economics and Trade at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, offered guidance on the expectations that accompany service overseas.
She urged them to remain focused on the country’s five principal foreign policy objectives: climate diplomacy; the promotion of trade and investment; human rights and development; maritime and security cooperation; and securing strategic partnerships.
Ms. Williams emphasised that representing The Bahamas, “Requires a clear understanding of these priorities and a commitment to advancing the country’s interests through effective diplomatic engagement.”
Addressing the newly commissioned diplomats, she closed with a reflection on the power of ideas whose time has come, underscoring the importance of vision, purpose and decisive action in shaping the country’s international future.
The appointments come as The Bahamas continues to strengthen its diplomatic relationships,expand economic opportunities and advance its interests within the international community.
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