JOINT COMMUNIQUE OF THE EIGHTH EUROPEAN UNION-BAHAMAS POLITICAL DIALOGUE

The Political Dialogue was convened in accordance with Article 3 of the Samoa Agreement, which is the Partnership Agreement between the European Union (EU) and Members of the Organisation of African, Caribbean, and Pacific Sates (OACPS).

The Bahamas and the European Union have enjoyed a long history of friendly and productive relations that has culminated with the observance of the fiftieth anniversary of diplomatic relations in 2025.

This year the Honourable Frederick A. Mitchell, Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Commonwealth of The Bahamas, Ambassador Jerusa Ali, Director General of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Commonwealth of The Bahamas and Her Excellency Dr. Erja Askola, Ambassador of the European Union Delegation to Jamaica, Belize and The Bahamas, co-chaired the meeting.

The Dialogue focused on priority issues of interest to The Bahamas and the European Union, including political and economic developments in a geopolitically changing landscape. 

The discussions facilitated productive and engaging discussions that addressed the multifaceted areas of relations between The Bahamas and the EU. Both parties were aligned on critical global issues and committed to respecting the rules-based international order and the promotion of multilateralism. The Dialogue reflected the existence of a strong bilateral relationship that is built on shared principles and values.

Delegates’ deliberations included exchanges on the political partnership, cooperation in multilateral fora, economic cooperation, human rights, environmental cooperation and peace and security.

Further to the bilateral agenda, The Bahamas and the EU expressed support for the preparations of the upcoming Fourth EU-CELAC Summit that will take place in Colombia and the Thirtieth Conference of the States Parties to the Framework Convention on Climate Change (COP30) that will take place in Brazil.

With respect to the international geopolitical landscape, delegates expressed concern over the rampant insecurity and complex multi-layered crises in Haiti, the Russian aggression against Ukraine and the security and humanitarian situation in the Middle East. The dialogue supported the call for compliance with international humanitarian law, norms and principles in conflict affected areas.