The US Embassy reports the resignation of US ambassador Raul Yzaguirre as of the end of this month, for health reasons. Yzaguirre met with Minister of Foreign Relations Carlos Morales Troncoso yesterday, Monday 6 May. In one of his last statements, Yzaguirre had defended the position of Barrick Gold in the Dominican Republic, warning the Dominican government that the dispute would affect foreign investment. As the impasse advanced, Yzaguirre commented that it was in the best interest of both parties to reach an agreement.
Yzaguirre will be returning to Maryland together with his wife Audrey.
Yzaguirre presented his credentials to then President Leonel Fernandez on 18 November 2010.
In his resignation letter he said that as around a million Dominicans live in the United States there is a special relationship between the two countries, which will continue to open doors for their mutual interests.
“Ambassador Yzaguirre leaves the Dominican Republic happy that the bilateral relationship continues to prosper as the United States and the Dominican Republic work side by side towards the shared goals in diverse areas,” said the document.
“During his mission in the country over the past two and a half years, the Ambassador has often pointed out the common ground that exists between the culture and values of the United States and Latin America.”
Daniel L. Foote, Deputy Chief of Mission, will take over at the embassy until a new Ambassador arrives.