Above: Bahamian Governor-General Sir Arthur Foulkes and Ambassador Dr Hans Peter Manz (BIS Photo/Derek Smith)

By the Caribbean Journal staff

New Austrian Ambassador to the Bahamas Dr Hans Peter Manz presented his letters of credence yesterday in a ceremony at Nassau’s Government House, as the two countries seek to deepen their diplomatic ties.

“Our countries also share the blessings of scenic beauty — though quite different — and strategic location, which have fueled economic prosperity and resilience even in the face of global economic depression,” said Bahamian Governor-General Sir Arthur Foulkes.

“We are also equally conscious of the responsibility which these blessings demand of us within our borders and beyond as guardians of unique environmental assets,” he said.

Manz, who joined the Austrian Ministry of Foreign Affairs in 1979, has served in a number of diplomatic posts, including at the United Nations, in Iran and Switzerland.

Foulkes also said the two countries shared a respect for moral values, the rule of law and a commitment to championing human rights.