Robert Thomas, Chargé d'Affaires at the U.S. Embassy, visits the Santiago Chamber of Commerce and Industry

Robert Thomas, Chargé d'Affaires at the U.S. Embassy, visits the Santiago Chamber of Commerce and Industry

Santiago. The Chargé d'Affaires of the U.S. Embassy in the Dominican Republic visited the Santiago Chamber of Commerce and Industry last Thursday, July 22, where he exchanged views with the chamber’s Board of Directors on current issues at the regional, national, and international levels.

The meeting took place at the Edificio Empresarial, headquarters of the Chamber of Commerce, where he was welcomed by Carlos Iglesias, president; Luis Campos and Oscar Schwarzbartl, vice presidents; and other members of the current board of directors. During Mr. Thomas’s first visit to Santiago, the discussion focused on the opportunities available to the business community in the northern region and its stance on various issues of interest to the United States and the Dominican Republic. Among these, the diplomat was briefed on the strategic and investment advantages offered by the port of Manzanillo, as well as the region’s transportation infrastructure, solar energy projects, public-private partnerships, and the benefits these initiatives bring to the northern region and its commercial development.

The president of the Santiago Chamber of Commerce and Industry, Mr. Carlos Iglesias, highlighted the importance of the visit and what it means for our city. He noted that “Santiago is considered the heart of the island, playing a significant role in the commercial, agricultural, and free-trade zone manufacturing sectors… making Santiago a region that sets the pace for the national production system.”. 

The meeting highlighted the importance of institutional strengthening, the country’s development opportunities stemming from the fight against corruption, and public reforms that strengthen the democratic system and ensure transparency in government processes, among other topics discussed. Finally, there was extensive discussion of trade opportunities between the United States and the Dominican Republic, and to that end, agendas for business missions to be carried out in the coming months will be shared.