The American Museum of Natural History (AMNH) in New York and the National Museum of Natural History “Prof. Eugenio de Jesús Marcano” (NMNH) in Santo Domingo signed a historic collaboration agreement on 22 November 2024 at the Presidential Palace, witnessed by President Luis Abinader and New York Representative Adriano Espaillat.
President Luis Abinader expressed his commitment to creating a transformative agreement for the benefit of Dominican families, people, culture, and knowledge. “We are going to make this a great deal for the benefit of our families, our people, our culture, and our knowledge,” he said passionately, emphasizing that the initiative has the full support of the government. “We may not build a museum as large as the American Museum of Natural History in New York, but we will create one of the best in the region,” he added.
Celeste Mir, director of the National Museum of Natural History (MNHN), also praised the signing of the agreement with the renowned global institution. She expressed confidence that this partnership would be long-lasting and allow both institutions to join forces for a common purpose: to better understand and protect planet Earth. Mir also noted that this event marks the beginning of a new era of collaboration, one that will transcend borders and strengthen scientific outreach and research in the Dominican Republic.
The office of Adriano Espaillat issued a release explaining the agreement strengthens ties between the United States and the Dominican Republic, focusing on biodiversity conservation, scientific research, and public education. It represents a shared commitment to protect the environment and promote cross-cultural understanding.
Representative Espaillat remarked: “This partnership demonstrates the power of collaboration between our great nations. It will benefit not only the Dominican Republic and New York but also global efforts to preserve our planet’s rich biodiversity and educate future generations.”
Key attendees included Dr. Sean Michael Decatur, president of the AMNH; Celeste Mir, director of the NMNH; Dr. Rosa Bonetti de Santana, president of Fundación Propagas; and Carolina Mejía, Mayor of Santo Domingo.
This partnership is expected to inspire joint research, educational programs, and public exhibitions, fostering environmental stewardship and sustainable practices.
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Museums Agency
Office of Adriano Espaillat
10 December 2024