FOREIGN
RELATIONS
Until
independence in 1975, Sao Tome and Principe had few ties abroad
except those that passed through Portugal. Following independence,
the new government sought to expand its diplomatic relationships.
A common language, tradition, and colonial experience have led
to close collaboration between Sao Tome and other ex-Portuguese
colonies in Africa, particularly Angola. Sao Tomean relations
with other African countries in the region, such as Gabon and
the Republic of the Congo, also are good. In December 2000, Sao
Tome signed the African Union treaty; the National Assembly later
ratified it.
The Sao
Tomean Government has generally maintained a foreign policy based
on nonalignment and cooperation with any country willing to assist
in its economic development. In recent years, it also has increasingly
emphasized ties to the United States and western Europe.
U.S.-SAO
TOMEAN RELATIONS
The United States was among the first countries to accredit an
ambassador to Sao Tome and Principe. The U.S. Ambassador based
in Gabon is accredited to Sao Tome on a non-resident basis. The
Ambassador and Embassy staff make regular visits to the islands.
The first Sao Tomean Ambassador to the United States, resident
in New York City, was accredited in 1985. In 1986, Sao Tomean
President da Costa visited the United States and met with then-Vice
President George H.W. Bush.
U.S. relations
with Sao Tome are excellent. In 1992, the Voice of America (VOA)
and the Government of Sao Tome signed a long-term agreement for
the establishment of a relay transmitter station in Sao Tome;
VOA currently broadcasts to much of Africa from this facility.
The U.S. Government also maintains a number of smaller assistance
programs in Sao Tome, administered through non-governmental organizations
or the Embassy in Libreville.
Principal U.S. Officials
Ambassador--Eunice Reddick
Deputy Chief of Mission--Nathan Holt
Management Officer--Charles Morrill
Public Affairs/Economic/Commercial Officer--John Corrao
Defense Attaché--Rene Dechaine
Consular Officer--Grace Genuino
The U.S. Embassy accredited to Sao Tome and Principe is located on the Boulevard de la Mer, B.P. 4000, Libreville, Gabon (tel: 241-762-003; fax: 241-745-507).
