President Luis Abinader decorated US Ambassador Robin Bernstein with the Order of Merit of Duarte, Sánchez and Mella (Decree 741-20). She is recognized for her wide-reaching positive actions in favor of improved Dominican Republic and US relations. This was Bernstein’s first appointment as a US diplomat.
In her remarks upon receiving the honor from President Abinader, Bernstein pointed out the potential for continued close relations. She mentioned the US will continue to work with the new Abinader administration on its priorities of reforms to advance democracy, transparency, combat corruption, civilian security, safeguarding strategic assets and increasing US investment. “Our strength and partnership is unwavering even in periods of great challenge and change. A democratic, safe and prosperous Dominican Republic is in both our interests,” she observed.
Bernstein highlights she believes the US is at the apex of its relationship with the DR, in many areas — political, military, law enforcement cooperation, trade and investment flows, sports and cultural linkages.
“We have stood together, both in the United Nations and elsewhere, in dealing with the enduring challenges of our time: the threat posed by Iran, the authoritarian regime in Venezuela, and so many other foreign policy challenges where we have counted on our alliance with the Dominican Republic to make meaningful progress,” she stated.
Bernstein said good bye to the Dominican people expressing: “It is very satisfying to reflect back upon what we have accomplished together. We have worked to combat issues such as zika, gender-based violence, trafficking in persons, narcotrafficking, the 2019 tourism crisis, and human rights violations. I hope you will remember me as an advocate for women, children and the most vulnerable members of society through our initiatives such as Vitamin Angels, the Academy of Women Entrepreneurs and our SAFE program for student athletes.
“With the deepest gratitude, I accept this high honor, this award—the Order of Duarte—not only for me, but on behalf of my team at Embassy Santo Domingo, the Department of State and the Trump Administration. It is a symbol of friendship and respect that exists between our two countries and it will always be in an honored place in our home.”
President Luis Abinader had words of praise for the US ambassador. “You were key in the bilateral relations between the United States and the Dominican Republic. As I have told you, you love the Dominican Republic and the Dominican Republic loves you,” said the President of the Republic, during the event.
Foreign Minister Roberto Alvarez also expressed appreciation for the efforts of the diplomat. “In her two years, Ambassador Bernstein knew how to gain the trust and warmth of the Dominican people and was able to find time from her hard work to explore Dominicanness and even learn to dance merengue, in addition to showing the passion she and her husband have for baseball, a passion that unites the United States with the country,” said Foreign Minister Roberto Alvarez.
The Foreign Minister also thanked Bernstein for her support when assuming government during the Covid-19 pandemic.
“It is my duty to tell you and your husband that you have a second home here in the country,” exclaimed Alvarez at the end of his participation.
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N Digital
5 January 2021