Addressing his countrymen, Abinader urged them to behave well in this country and uphold the name of the Dominican Republic.
The dignitary stressed the importance of having formal representation in Nassau, first with a consulate and then with an embassy, given the large number of Santo Domingo citizens residing in the area.
He also takes into account that the trade relations between the two nations could have a larger exchange volume in the future, he said.
In this sense, he expressed that work is underway to increase the number and frequency of flights between the two countries to carry passengers and cargo, thereby increasing bilateral trade.
He also announced that he would work with the Deputy Minister for Consular Affairs at the State Department to reduce the time it takes for nationals to obtain their passports.
According to the presidential press, the resident Dominicans, who work there in various occupations such as bricklayers, carpenters, mechanics and professionals in various industries, have asked the president with a view to establishing an office of the Central Elections Committee in the Bahamas general election next year.
Abinader explained that the electoral issue is not a matter for the government but for the body responsible for the elections and that it must be approved by all political parties.
Also attending the meeting were Foreign Minister Roberto Álvarez, Finance Minister Jochi Vicente and Ambassador Angie Shakira.
The ruler traveled to the Bahamas this Thursday to attend the Caricom meeting, which will discuss issues of common interest to countries in the region, and his return to the country is scheduled for this afternoon-evening.
lam/mpv