The Tribune

By AVA TURNQUEST

Tribune Digital Editor

aturnquest@tribunemedia.net

Foreign Affairs Minister Fred Mitchell said the newly restored and named Bahamian Chancery in Washington, DC, represents a renewal of the country’s diplomatic presence and a chance to reflect on the relationships that shaped its foreign service.

Mr Mitchell gave remarks at the naming ceremony for the Livingstone B Johnson building, which honors the country’s first Ambassador to the US, earlier this month.

He said: "This moment represents both a renewal of our diplomatic presence and an opportunity to reflect on the relationships and history that brought us to this day."

Mr Mitchell recalled his early days in Washington in 1980, highlighting the influence of Ambassador Reg Wood, his predecessor L.B. Johnson, and the hospitality shown by Frank and Jane.

"Everyone knows everyone here, and it is these informal associations that have influenced the development of my views on foreign policy, first as an activist, and later as a minister,” he said. “Their support, and the small moments of kindness, shaped my path in ways that endure today."

Mr Mitchell stressed the power of relationships in diplomacy.

Citing Nobel laureate and author Toni Morrison, he added: "When you have power, you must name things. In a few moments, the Prime Minister will do just that with this beautifully refurbished building now standing proudly in its new multimillion-dollar incarnation. I toured it this morning, and it is magnificently done."

The minister said the Chancery holds special significance for Bahamians connected to the United States. "We are entirely dependent on the United States of America for our survival… even though we are smaller in size than Dade County, Florida. But we have a right to an independent existence."

He further linked the country’s stance on migration and diplomacy to long-standing global principles.

"The Universal Declaration of Human Rights of 1945 states that every person has the right to leave their country and return and implies the right to enter another lawfully and be treated fairly and respectfully within the law,” Mr Mitchell continued.

“Convenience must never override the rule of law. We live in a zone of peace, and we are committed to using our voice to preserve it."

Mr Mitchell paid tribute to LB Johnson’s “pioneering work” after independence, and to those who helped secure and maintain the building, including Margaret MacDonald, supported by then-FSO David Cates; and former Ambassador Sir Cornelius Smith, who “sounded the alarm” in 2012 about its deterioration.

He reaffirmed the government’s commitment to modernising the foreign service through updated regulations, fair pay, transparency and clear career pathways.