BRUSSELS, Belgium, October 4, 2009 - Grenada is seeking ways to deepen its relations with the Kingdom of Belgium.

This was among issues discussed when Ambassador and Head of Mission to the European Communities, Stephen Fletcher presented his credentials to King Albert II of Belgium last Wednesday, appointing him as Ambassador Extraordinary and Extra Plenipotentiary to the Kingdom of Belgium. 

During the ceremony, King Albert II showed great interest in Grenada, and its development. He inquired into many issues on Grenada including; how the economic decline in the United States is affecting Grenada’s development, plans for deepening trading and economic relations with the Kingdom of Belgium, the regional integration process, among other issues.

In response, Ambassador Fletcher, expressed warm and sunshine greetings on behalf of the Prime Minister, Government and People of Grenada, and thanked the King for the opportunity to serve in his country and for his country’s support to Grenada through institutions like the European Union.

Ambassador Fletcher also expressed Grenada’s desire to deepen relations with the Kingdom of Belgium.

Additionally, Ambassador Fletcher detailed the negative impact of the global economic crisis, on Grenada, especially on the island’s tourism and investment sectors. Ambassador Fletcher also recalled the impact and consequences of Hurricane Ivan in 2004, on the people and economy of Grenada. Ambassador Fletcher demonstrated the overall effect of the combination of the above events on the country’s development.

However, Ambassador Fletcher, highlighted efforts initiated by the Government in St. George’s to mitigate the negative consequences of the global economic recession on the population, particularly the poor and vulnerable, and referred to the recent World Bank/IMF Report on Grenada, that applauds the Government efforts in effectively managing the country’s economy through this difficult period.

Ambassador Fletcher ended by extending an invitation to King Albert II to visit Grenada at a time of his choosing in order to experience, the warmth and hospitality of the Grenadian people.