Democratic rule has a strong hold in the Republic's political culture. Regular elections and a tradition of open and passionate debate keep its rulers under consistent scrutiny. It is a tolerant society, unafraid of change, and welcoming the diversity brought in by successive waves of immigrants from all over the world. Dominicans are proud of what they have achieved, and have confidence in the future. But they are not arrogant, and appreciate there is still a lot to do. Challenges are faced with optimism, resilience and the certainty that from a base of well-maintained stability, the Dominican Republic will flourish as a cosmopolitan regional centre, a source of inspiration, example and guidance for others.
The Dominican Republic stands out as a country that has learnt hard lessons, and with astonishing speed has learnt to thrive. Nearly equal in area to Switzerland it has size on its side, as well as a historical commitment to its natural resources that has left its core environmental assets intact.
