Seminar examines full integration

THE first immigration and co-development seminar in Majorca opened yesterday. Subjects of debate included improving integration and the combatting of existing stereotypes. The event was organised by the new Balearic Ministry of Immigration and Co-operation, with the support of the Ministry of Labour and Social Affairs. In the opening speech immigration minister Encarnacion Pastor stated that, “We want to develop policies to promote the full integration of immigrants into our community, but we also ask for their support and co-operation”. Pastor explained that co-development included the training of immigrants so they could promote development in their own countries. They would be given help to establish themselves there, savings guidance so they can make productive investments in their own countries, promotion of funds for basic social development projects in their own countries and technical assistance. Those taking part are, in the majority, from the principal countries from which most of the immigrants to Spain come. Teresa Ossio Bustillos, the Bolivian ambassador; Griselda Cruz Rosario, first secretary of the Dominican Republic Embassy, Adedotun Adenrele Adepoju and Adewale Oloko, ministers of the Nigerian Embassy, Guillermo McGough, general consul of the Argentinian Embassy, etc. They consider that, “Co-development doesn't mean working towards the return of immigrants to their countries of origin.” The seminar continues today, co-ordinated by Professor Antonio Sierra of the Balearic University.