The Tribune

FOREIGN Affairs and Immigration Minister Fred Mitchell yesterday called for less ceremony and more continuous dialogue between the United States and Caribbean nations, stressing the importance of shared values, free trade and predictable public policy.

Speaking at the US-Caribbean Forum at the US State Department in Washington, DC, Mr Mitchell highlighted the longstanding relationship between the United States, The Bahamas and other CARICOM member states.

He suggested that diplomatic engagement between the two sides involved “much, too much ceremony” and called instead for a “continuing conversation”.

According to a statement issued by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Immigration, Mr Mitchell outlined several priorities for The Bahamas in its engagement with the United States and CARICOM partners.

He stressed the importance of countries operating on the same moral and ethical principles, respecting the rule of law and maintaining stable and predictable public policies.

“We believe in the rule of law. We believe in free trade, and public policy should be predictable and stable,” Mr Mitchell said.

His remarks were delivered before US officials and representatives of CARICOM member states attending the forum.

The ministry said the address reaffirmed The Bahamas’ priorities in its diplomatic relations with the United States and its regional partners.