EU High Representative Catherine Ashton selects new Heads of EU Delegations to Cuba and Djibouti - Main contents

EUROPEAN UNION

Brussels, 19 July 2012 A

EU High Representative Catherine Ashton selects new Heads of EU

Delegations to Cuba and Djibouti

Catherine Ashton, EU High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy/Vice President of the Commission, today announced her intention to appoint new Heads of the European Union Delegations to Cuba and Djibouti¹. Once accreditation procedures have been completed, Herman Portocarero will become Head of Delegation in Havana and Joseph Silva will become Head of Delegation in Djibouti

Catherine Ashton said: "I am delighted to appoint these excellent candidates to these key posts in the External Action Service. Their experience and expertise will be a huge asset to our work in two countries which face many challenges over the coming years. I have been very impressed by the quality of the candidates who put themselves forward. The opportunity to represent the EU in the world clearly continues to attract the very best diplomats."

Herman Portocarero is currently Belgian Consul-General in New York. Prior to that, he enjoyed a successful career in the Belgian foreign ministry, including overseas postings as Ambassador in Jamaica (2004-2008) and in Cuba (1995-1999)

Joseph Silva was most recently the French Ambassador to Yemen. Prior to that, he has had numerous other postings abroad, including as Deputy French ambassador in Lebanon (2005-2009) and in Ivory Coast (1997-2001)

¹ Appointments will be confirmed following the agreement of the host countries and administrative formalities