The Tribune

Freeport, Grand Bahama - The Grand Bahama Chamber of Commerce (GBCC) has been updated on Haiti’s progress since the devastating earthquake by its Ambassador to the Bahamas, Antonio Rodrigue. “We are honoured today to welcome his Excellency to our chamber,” said Barry Malcolm, the Grand Bahama Chamber of Commerce’s president.

“Having worked in Haiti during my career, and knowing the country and the challenges it faces, we at the Chamber are pleased to connect with his team and create a synergy between us.”

Mr Rodrigue added: “Our countries have identical demographics, and we hope to encourage a mutual economic development and trade programmes between us.”

The Ambassador discussed current economic conditions in his country, and highlighted Haiti’s growth since the earthquakes.

He said 80 per cent of the population had returned to living in their homes, while 1.25 million children were in free education.

“We have repaired and built new ports, and I am pleased to say our new airport re-opened last month,” said the Ambassador. “We are here inviting Bahamians to invest, and to explore business opportunities in our country. We are serious about investments and our future.”

He added that the Bahamas Chamber of Commerce and Employers Confederation (BCCEC) in Nassau had visited Haiti, and he invited the Grand Bahama Chamber to do the same.

Each guest was also given a guide to ‘Doing Business in Haiti’, and allowed time to meet with the Ambassador and his team.