The Dominican Republic hosted a reception at the Museum of Modern Art to celebrate Europe Day, marking the anniversary of the European Union’s founding.
The event featured a keynote address by European Commissioner for International Partnerships, Jutta Urpilainen, who was visiting the country to present the bloc’s ambitious Global Gateway development strategy. Minister of the Presidency, Joel Santos, led a delegation of Dominican government officials in welcoming the Commissioner.
The Global Gateway initiative is a €300 billion investment program launched in 2021, aiming to fund infrastructure projects worldwide. The EU positions it as an alternative to China’s Belt and Road Initiative, which has faced criticism over human rights and economic concerns.
“Unlike other initiatives,” Commissioner Urpilainen reportedly said, “the Global Gateway fosters links, not dependencies,” emphasizing the EU’s commitment to sustainable and responsible partnerships.
Europe Day itself commemorates the Schuman Declaration, delivered by French Foreign Minister Robert Schuman on 9 May 1950. This pivotal moment in European history proposed the creation of a European Coal and Steel Community, pooling resources to prevent future wars on the continent.
Speaking on Europe Day in the Dominican Republic, EU Ambassador Katja Afheldt underscored the strong ties between the European Union and the Dominican Republic during her speech. “We share values,” she said, “and have enjoyed decades of excellent political, commercial, and cooperation relations.” The presence of Commissioner Urpilainen, she added, serves as a testament to the importance of this enduring partnership.
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Diario Libre
4 June 2024