UN Secretary of State Hilary Clinton expresses regret over Camillo arrest

US Secretary of State, Hilary Clinton has expressed regret about the incident in which this country’s UN Permanent Representative, Ambassador Camillo Gonsalves, was confronted by a member of the New York Police Department on March 28.{{more}}

In a letter dated April 26 and addressed to Prime Minister Dr Ralph Gonsalves, Clinton reassured that the “United States takes its responsibilities as host country to the United Nations very seriously.

“U.S. Ambassador to the United Nations Susan Rice met with Ambassador Gonsalves on April 10 to discuss the way forward. The head of the New York City Commission for the United Nations, Consular Corps, and Protocol has informed the United States Mission to the United Nations that it is conducting an internal review of the matter. Based on the results of their review, we will examine ways to prevent such incidents from occurring in the future,” the letter stated.

“The United States and St Vincent and the Grenadines share historical and cultural ties, as well as a mutual commitment to democratic traditions and regional security. We look forward to continued collaboration with you to strengthen further our relationship,” the letter said.

“Please accept my assurance of our deepest respect for your permanent representative,” the letter said in conclusion.

Meanwhile, shortly after he arrived in the state on Wednesday, Prime Minister Dr Ralph Gonsalves said that Clinton’s letter is a “good letter”.

“I am very pleased to note that they are shouldering all their responsibilities and the requisite inquiries that are ongoing, and that the assurance which she has given us of their deep respect for our permanent representative.

“I think it’s a good letter,” Gonsalves said.(AA)