Abinader and Governor Hochul discuss stronger cooperation between the Dominican Republic and New York

President Luis Abinader met with New York Governor Kathy Hochul to strengthen cooperation between the Dominican Republic and New York and follow up on initiatives discussed during Hochul’s visit to the country last year.

Abinader thanked Hochul for her support of the Dominican community and described New York as a key partner, noting that more than one million Dominicans and people of Dominican descent live in the state.

A key area of cooperation is emergency and disaster response. Approximately 40 Dominican officials working in emergency management and public safety are currently in New York participating in a training and collaboration summit focused on disaster preparedness and response.

Hochul said New York is sharing its experience and emergency response facilities with the Dominican delegation to strengthen both countries’ ability to address disasters.

Dominican Republic and New York expand environmental cooperation

The governor also highlighted potential collaboration on environmental challenges, including support from New York’s Department of Environmental Conservation for efforts related to the Yaque River, which has faced pollution problems for decades.

Hochul said the two governments also discussed economic issues, energy costs and fuel prices, as well as other areas of mutual interest.

The governor emphasized the importance of the Dominican community in New York and said she wants to ensure that residents feel supported amid concerns surrounding recent immigration policies and enforcement actions.

Abinader, meanwhile, highlighted his own family’s history of immigration to the United States and thanked Hochul for her cooperation and support for Dominicans in New York.

Both leaders expressed their intention to continue strengthening ties and expanding collaboration between the Dominican Republic and New York State.