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Prime Minister Spencer yesterday received a visit from His Excellency Mr. Jesus Silva - Ambassador of Spain to Antigua and Barbuda. During the meeting, His Excellency expressed condolences to the Honourable Prime Minister on the loss of Cabinet member the Hon. Charlesworth Samuel. Among matters discussed were Tourism investment with particular reference to the prospect of large Hotel Chains currently in the Caribbean to invest in Antigua and Barbuda. Scholarships, especially in the area of hospitality/ tourism training were also a focus if the meeting.

The Prime Minister also mentioned the slow pace of E.U. funding and said that Antigua and Barbuda is willing to cooperate and be flexible, and pointed out that billions of Euros remain un-utilized and emphasized that the EPA made the case for quick disbursement of funds more vital. Possible projects identified for funding include agriculture, greenhouse technologies and hydro-phonics.

The Prime Minister stated that Caricom was very excited about Expo 2008 at Zaragosa and was looking forward to participating. Spain is scheduled to host the upcoming CARICOM –Spain Summit. The last one was held in Madrid in 2006.

Also in attendance at the meeting were H.E. Ambassador Colin Murdoch and Honorary Consul for Spain Mr. Noel Walling.