Grenada to open diplomatic mission in Russia

Grenada is moving to open a diplomatic mission in Russia which would bring to the Spice Island its developmental objectives through representation.

A government statement quoted Prime Minister Dr. Keith Mitchell as saying the mission would also facilitate communication with potential investors wishing to come to Grenada.

The prime minister recently met with Russian Ambassador to Grenada Nikolay Smimov to discuss a wide range of matters, including debt relief for the island.

Russia is hinting at a further debt relief for Grenada after the islands signed an agreement on settlement of its debt to the Russian Federation through the Paris Club in November 2015.

The statement said the debt amounting to US$266,000 was signed on Nov. 19, 2015 and St. George’s has been assured “that there may be even further total relief of debt owed by Grenada.”

It went on to say that the debt issue will be followed up by both accredited missions for clarification and possible financial settlement.

The statement also quoted the Russian diplomat as indicating that the main purpose of his visit was to discuss bilateral issues such as scholarships, training opportunities, debt relief, the establishment of a Diplomatic Mission of Grenada in the Russian Federation and the signing of a new visa waiver agreement in the not too distant future between both countries.