U.S. Ambassador Herschel Walker formally presented his credentials to Her Excellency Cynthia Pratt, Governor General of the Commonwealth of The Bahamas, marking the start of his tenure as the 14th U.S. Ambassador to the country.
Walker highlighted that he is the first U.S. Ambassador appointed to The Bahamas in over 14 years and noted his personal connection to the country through his wife’s family ties to Long Island. In his remarks, he emphasized the close relationship between the United States and The Bahamas, referencing their shared maritime border, cultural ties, and commitments to democratic values such as free speech and free enterprise.
During his address, Walker outlined key areas for collaboration with Bahamian authorities: “During my tenure, I will work closely with the Government of The Bahamas to advance our shared priorities. Together, we will: Ensure the safety and wellbeing of our citizens; Combat transnational challenges such as illicit drug trafficking, illegal migration, and weapons smuggling; Enhance our joint efforts to counter malign influence and terrorism; and Promote our shared economic prosperity.”
He also acknowledged successful programs like Operation Bahamas, Turks and Caicos in combating narcotics trafficking in the region. He praised cooperation between the Royal Bahamas Defence Force and U.S. Armed Forces for enhancing maritime security and improving search-and-rescue operations.
Walker stated: “I believe one of the most effective ways to ensure security in our Hemisphere is to promote economic prosperity. I bring to my service as Ambassador a lifetime of experience in business and a passion for bringing people together to achieve a common goal.”
He referenced significant exchanges between both nations—millions of Americans visit The Bahamas annually while many Bahamians travel to the United States for education or business—saying this mutual exchange benefits both countries.
Walker also spoke about ongoing community engagement efforts at the new U.S. Embassy building in Nassau as part of celebrations around America250, which marks 250 years since American independence.
Reflecting on recent joint disaster response efforts following Hurricane Melissa, Walker said: “Nowhere was our commitment more evident than in our recent efforts to support The Bahamas during Hurricane Melissa. The United States government, people, and private sector helped evacuate those in harm’s way, and were first in line to support recovery efforts.”
Concluding his remarks, Walker stated: “I am deeply committed to advancing the extraordinary partnership between the United States and The Bahamas…Together we will work to ensure a safe, prosperous, and stronger future for our citizens and for the region.”
Walker thanked Governor General Pratt for welcoming him into this role on behalf of President Trump.