Diplomatic Week 2023
Diplomatic Week 2023 in The Bahamas, held under the theme “Celebrating 50 Years of Foreign Relations and Beyond in an Independent Bahamas,” marked a significant milestone in the nation’s global engagement. The event, which ran from October 22-27, featured high-level meetings, panel discussions, and cultural exchanges, focusing on key issues such as climate diplomacy, trade, regional security, and international cooperation. Highlights included the presentation of credentials by new ambassadors, discussions on Haiti and The Bahamas’ IMO Council bid, and a church service at St. Francis Xavier Cathedral to commence the week. Through diplomatic engagements and networking opportunities, The Bahamas reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening international relations and addressing global challenges.
Diplomatic Week Church Service
On Sunday 22nd October 2023, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs started Diplomatic Week with a church service at St. Frances Xavier Cathedral. In attendance were members of the Bahamian and Foreign Diplomatic and Consular Corps.
Over the next four days, the Diplomatic and Consular Corps engaged in briefing sessions and dialogue with various stakeholders through the Government of The Bahamas, International Organizations, and bilateral partners. Topics include The Bahamas’ IMO Council C Candidature, the situation in Haiti, trade and investments, food security, and climate diplomacy.
The Hon Prime Minister and Foreign Minister renewed The Bahamas foreign policy, agenda, and objectives aligned with the administration’s new legislative agenda as laid out by Governor General, Her Excellency Rt. Hon. Cynthia Pratt on the 4 October 2023 from the speech from the Throne.
Diplomatic Week Bahamas-EU 6th Dialogue
During the 2023 Bahamas Diplomatic Week, Foreign Minister Hon. Frederick A. Mitchell, M.P. officially opened the Sixth Political Dialogue between The Bahamas and the European Union. This dialogue, built on the long-standing partnership between the two parties, focused on strengthening cooperation in key areas of mutual interest.
In his address, Minister Mitchell highlighted the global challenges facing developing nations, including climate change, economic instability, food insecurity, organized crime, and geopolitical conflicts. He emphasized the urgent need for revitalized global partnerships to support sustainable development and resilience for vulnerable countries like The Bahamas. The discussions reinforced the shared commitment to addressing these pressing issues through policy-driven solutions and international collaboration.