Strengthening strategic cooperation ties between the Dominican Republic and New York
President Luis Abinader and New York Governor Kathy Hochul held a high-level diplomatic meeting with the goal of consolidating bilateral cooperation in critical areas such as emergency management, infrastructure protection, and technical training exchange. This meeting continues the agreements established during the governor’s visit to Dominican territory last November.
During the event, held in New York and in which Congressman Adriano Espaillat also participated, the importance of the relationship between both parties was highlighted, especially given the significant Dominican community residing in the state of New York.
We are working on several programs, especially regarding emergency and disaster response. More than a million Dominicans and their descendants live here, so we maintain a very special relationship and a constant commitment to their progress and integration.
Luis Abinader, President of the Dominican Republic
Exchange of security and emergency experts
One of the central points of the meeting was the presence of a delegation of 40 Dominican representatives, who are in New York participating in a specialized summit at the State Preparedness Training Center (SPTC), in Oriskany. This group is receiving intensive training from September 21 to 25.
- Search and rescue: Tactical exercises and use of drones in urban operations.
- Infrastructure protection: Security protocols following seismic events.
- Crisis management: Public alert systems, hazardous materials handling, and operational well-being.
- Environmental sanitation: Technical collaboration for protection projects of the Yaque del Norte river.
Governor Kathy Hochul highlighted the importance of sharing New York’s technical expertise to mitigate the effects of natural disasters that, by their nature, affect both the island and the U.S. region. Likewise, the state leader expressed her position on current immigration policies, emphasizing the positive impact that the Dominican community has on New York’s economy and social life.
President Abinader, reflecting on his own family history linked to immigration, reiterated his gratitude for the support provided to his compatriots and reaffirmed the willingness to continue collaborating closely to face common challenges and strengthen resilience against extreme weather events.
