Moontown

Barbados and the Republic of the Philippines formally established diplomatic relations on Monday, June 22, 2009 with the signing of a Joint Communiqué by H.E. Dr. Christopher Hackett, Permanent Representative of Barbados to the United Nations and his Philippine counterpart, H.E. Mr. Hilario G. Davide, Jr.

In the Joint Communiqué, both countries expressed their desire to promote and strengthen ties of friendship and cooperation on the basis of equality, mutual respect for each other’s sovereignty, independence and territorial integrity as well as non-interference in each other’s internal affairs.

Speaking at the signing, Ambassador Hackett said that the establishment of diplomatic relations between the two countries represented “a first step towards increased cooperation and collaboration at the bilateral as well as at the multilateral levels.” 

Referring to the current global financial crisis, Dr. Hackett noted that it highlighted our inter-dependence and the importance of international and regional cooperation and coordination in responding to common development challenges.  He expressed the hope that the crisis would serve as a catalyst for change, generating bold new ideas and collective action to transform the existing international financial and economic system with a view to improving its operation.

In response, the Permanent Representative of the Philippines stated that the Philippines and Barbados shared much in common as developing countries and as island states, particularly with respect to issues such as climate change.  He expressed the interest of the Philippines in developing an active and substantial relationship with Barbados, both bilaterally and within the United Nations.  The signing ceremony was held at the Permanent Mission of the Philippines in New York and was witnessed by the diplomatic staff attached to both Missions. (Ministry of Foreign Affairs & Foreign Trade)

Climate change and alternative energy were the main issues discussed recently when Minister of Foreign Affairs and Foreign Trade, Senator Maxine McClean, met with Japan’s new Ambassador to Barbados, Tatsuaki Iwata.

            Expressing concern about the high level of carbon dioxide emissions that contribute to climate change, the two officials agreed that the present advances in Japanese technology and its transfer to the rest of the world could bring about a drastic reduction of this gas. 

Noting that Japan had great success in the use of alternative energy, especially solar energy, Ambassador Iwata and Senator McClean spoke of the possibility of collaboration in this area.

Other issues which came up in the talks were the financial crisis and its worldwide impact, the support for Japan in various elections, the need for a Japan/CARICOM Ministerial Meeting, and the possibility of a double taxation agreement.

Barbados and Japan established diplomatic relations in 1967. (EM/BGIS)

Peas and Rice; Meat Pasta; Vegetable Pasta

Potato Wedges; Baked Chicken; Baked Pork

Fried Snapper; Curry Chicken Stew; Tomato Fish Stew

Steamed Vegs; Tossed Salad; Cole Slaw

Enjoy the cool atmosphere at Moon Town, St. Lucy, Barbados