Dominican Republic leader snubs Industries’ ‘confirmed’ debate

Santo Domingo.- President DaniloMedina will forego an activity announced Thursday by Dominican Republic’s Industries Association(AIRD), where the presidential candidates of the ruling party (PLD) and the opposition(PRM), Luis Abinader, were to be the main speakers.

In a statement, Presidency Administrativeminister Jose Ramon Peralta said Medina didn’t confirm the March 17 dateannounced by AIRD for each candidate to talk about issues related to thatsector.

"Unfortunately previouscommitments will not allow president Danilo Medina to participate in the event.We appreciate the opportunity offered to the President to express his mainproposals for the industrial sector, which he’s willing to share with you at aprearranged date. "

Peralta said he was a surprisedto see Medina’s participation had been confirmed, without having received any ofthe topics or having an opportunity to make a space in his schedule well inadvance.

The AIRD has yet to issue a statementin response to the apparent gaffe.