Spain’s new Ambassador arrives

By Sarafina Sanerivi 29 April 2016, 12:00AM

Spain has a new Ambassador to Samoa. He is Manuel Pradas Romani.

He presented his credentials to the Head of State, His Highness, Tui Atua Tupua Tamasese Efi, at the Head of State’s Residence at Tuaefu yesterday.

A traditional Ava ceremony was held to welcome Mr. Manuel Romani and his wife, Elvira Lopez De Quintana Salafranca. 

It was followed by the presentation of Mr. Romani’s Letter of Credence.

In his letter, Ambassador Romani reflected on the long history of Spanish’s presence in the South Pacific. 

“There are records of the presence of Spanish explorers dating from early on the 16th Century,” said Mr. Romani.

“Spain wishes to be again in this part of the world, to enhance its relations with the Pacific Region, this is a state policy. Spain reaffirms its commitment to the “Samoa Pathway” document calling for sustainable development.”

He added that Samoa and Spain share the same principles and standards in the fields of democracy, rules of law, promotion of Human Rights, tolerance and diversity.

“In times of international changes, Spain particularly values the cooperation and friendship with your country. 

“There are potential fields for cooperation for tourism to renewable energies. The Embassy will spare no efforts in supporting the developments of our bilateral ties in these and any other area.”

In accepting Mr. Romani’s letter, His Highness Tui Atua highlighted the importance of sharing a “common bond that brings forth unity, harmony and peace.”

“Such is also the relation that our two countries share. The Kingdom of Spain’s commitment to this friendship will further strengthen the good relations our countries enjoy locally and in the region.”

“The Samoa Pathway calling for sustainable development is a reflection of the world we see today and what we do now, determines what the future will be. “A commitment by the Kingdom of Spain to the Pacific island Forum as a Post Forum Dialogue Partner reassures us that a sustainable future awaits our future generations.”

According to a press release by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade, “Ambassador Romani entered the diplomatic service in 1980 as a First Secretary in the Embassy of Spain to Teheran. Since then, Mr. Romani has held various other positions throughout the Foreign Service of Spain including Deputy head of Mission in the embassy of Spain to Quito, Ecuador in 1990, Ambassador of Spain to the Republic of Angola in 2011, Consul General of Spain in Bayonne, France in 2012 and most recently Consul General of Spain in Lyon, France in 2013.

By Sarafina Sanerivi 29 April 2016, 12:00AM
Samoa Observer

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