New Israeli Ambassador visits Antigua

PM Bird greets Ambassador Bar-On
(Photo: Norman 'Gus' Thomas)

Tuesday, November 11, 2003

ST JOHN'S, Antigua: His Excellency Mr. Yoav Bar-On is the latest in a series of diplomats who have traveled to Antigua in recent weeks in order to present their credentials and to have meetings with senior government officials.

The new Israeli ambassador arrived in Antigua on the weekend and presented his credentials to the Governor-General in a brief ceremony at Government House this morning.

After the presentation ceremony, Ambassador Bar-On proceeded to his first meeting as ambassador with Prime Minister Bird.

The dialogue at the meeting centered on the bilateral relations between Antigua & Barbuda and Israel, and the situation in the Middle East.

Ambassador Bar-On highlighted that both countries enjoyed good bilateral relations and that many training opportunities were available to Antigua & Barbuda nationals in Israel in areas critical to national development. He especially mentioned agricultural irrigation techniques, and stated that two courses would be offered in Antigua later this year.

PM Bird undertook to increase the number of nationals taking up training opportunities in Israel; and he spoke of the relationship between various Israeli investors and the contribution they had made to the national economy.

Regarding the situation in the Middle East, Ambassador Bar-On called for more understanding from CARICOM countries of the Israeli position and greater flexibility on various items which came before the UN General Assembly for voting. He spoke of the security situation, and called on all countries to be on guard against terrorist activity.

PM Bird undertook to consider making an official visit to Israel at a time convenient to both sides, where the many bilateral issues could be further explored.

Ambassador Bar-On also had meetings with Ministers Robin Yearwood and Vere Bird Jr; and will also meet Ministers Rodney Williams and John St. Luce before departing Antigua on Wednesday. 

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