SVG, Mexico to set up Mixed Scientific and Technical commission

The Governments of Mexico and Saint Vincent and the Grenadines have signed a Basic Agreement for Scientific and Technical Cooperation.{{more}}

The agreement is aimed at fostering collaboration in these fields through the establishment of programmes in key areas, and in line with the development of strategies of each country.

The agreement was signed last week Friday, in Washington, DC by Ambassador Arturo Sarukhan, on behalf of Mexico, and by Ambassador Ellsworth I. A. John, on behalf of Saint Vincent and the Grenadines.

During a brief ceremony held at the Embassy of Mexico, both Ambassadors expressed their satisfaction at the signing of this important instrument, which reaffirms the spirit of cooperation that exists between both nations, while strengthening the ties of friendship between the peoples of Mexico and Saint Vincent and the Grenadines.

The agreement states that both countries shall develop scientific and technical cooperation through: the exchange of specialists, information, material and equipment; the training of human resources; joint scientific and technological development projects; the organization of seminars or conferences; and any other modality agreed upon by both governments.

In order to ensure an efficient and effective cooperation within the framework of this Agreement, both Parties will set up a Mixed Scientific and Technical Commission. The Mixed Commission shall meet biennially, alternating between Mexico and Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, on the dates and in the cities agreed upon through diplomatic channels. The main purpose of this Commission is to monitor the execution of the Agreement, prepare biennial work plans, evaluate the programme as a whole, and submit the recommendations that it deems appropriate.

According to the Agreement, the Parties may apply for financing and the participation of international organizations in the execution of the programmes and projects agreed upon.

On behalf of Mexico, the executive body in charge of coordinating the activities derived from the Agreement shall be the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, and on behalf of Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Commerce and Trade.

The Agreement shall enter into force thirty days after the date on which the parties notify each other, by written means, through diplomatic channels, that they have complied with the requirements established in their domestic legislation necessary for this purpose, and shall remain in effect for five years, that will be automatically renewable for equal periods.