NEGROS Occidental Governor Alfredo Marañon Jr. welcomed the Ambassador of the Embassy of Belgium Michel Goffin as the latter paid a courtesy visit in the Provincial Capitol Thursday, December 6.

The ambassador was with Johanna Vandamme, general secretary of a non-government organization in Belgium, and Dominique Lemay, president and founder of Virlanie Foundation Inc. based in Negros Occidental.

They talked on the organic advocacy of the provincial government and the province’s rich source of manpower, which Goffin is particularly interested at.

He was also impressed with the environmental conservation effort of the province.

Goffin will also be attending the groundbreaking ceremony of the said foundation’s project.

Food Always in the Home comprises an organic farm for young adults with disabilities located in Barangay Ma-ao, Bago City.

Virlanie Foundation Inc. is a non-profit organization dedicated to the protection and empowerment of the abused, abandoned, neglected children and youth.

The ambassador visited the province for the first time and he was particularly impressed with the notable developments especially those projects that highlight the partnership of the government and the private sector.

He also said he will definitely come back to Negros to discuss possible partnership in terms of organic advocacy and work opportunities for skilled workers.

Negros Occidental Tourism Officer Cristine Mansinares also joined the meeting and presented the tourist attractions of the province. (PR)