Organization of American States

Press Release

E-113/99ie
December 15, 1999

OAS MEMBER STATES PRAISE DEPARTING
BAHAMIAN, SALVADORIAN ENVOYS

 

Member country representatives to the Organization of American States (OAS) praised Bahamian Ambassador Sir Arlington G. Butler and Salvadorian Ambassador Mauricio Granillo, as they prepare to wrap up their respective diplomatic assignments in Washington.

At the meeting of the Permanent Council in Washington today, Chairman Sir Courtney Blackman, the Ambassador of Barbados, led off the farewell tributes to the two diplomats, highlighting their distinguished record and describing them as "very highly qualified diplomats."

Trinidad and Tobago’s Ambassador, Michael Arneaud, speaking for his Caribbean Community (CARICOM) colleagues, wished the two departing Permanent Representatives success in their future endeavors. He said of Ambassador Butler, who had served as Chairman of the Permanent Council for three months until last September: "Sir Arlington demonstrated his skill and experience with the work of this Organization." Ambassador Arneaud also thanked the outgoing Salvadorian Ambassador for is service to the Organization.

The Costa Rican delegation also joined in, along with those of Guyana, United States, Brazil and Panama as well as Secretary General César Gaviria’s representative, praising the ambassadors for the service and experience they brought to the hemispheric organization.

During the Permanent Council session, the members also saluted the governments of the United States and Panama on yesterday’s transfer of the Panama Canal to the Republic of Panama.

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