Radical changes at foreign posts

Diplomats are staying too long at foreign posts and this reportedly increases the chances of them becoming estranged and developing special affinity with the country where they are stationed. Foreign Affairs Minister Yldiz PollackBeighle recently explained that the issue is cause for concern and that she would discuss it with President Desi Bouterse this week. “We must act fast,” said the minister who added that top officials at the Foreign Affairs Ministry and several diplomatic advisors have already put together a report which will be presented to the head of state. The report mentions specific posts in the world where radical changes are required. The report is also part of the government austerity policy. Some foreign posts are overstaffed but still have a shortage of skilled people who are needed to haul in investments and execute the nation’s foreign policy. The problem is mostly caused by the fact that political affinity trumps expertise at the foreign posts. The president reportedly instructed Minister PollackBeighle to replace diplomats after 4 years. Some diplomats have already been stationed at their foreign posts for over 10 years. “The president has given me clear instructions on the matter. We must not let people stay longer than 4 years at a post,” said Minister Pollack-Beighle.