Mark Asquino, Spanish Connections: My Diplomatic Journey from Venezuela to Equatorial Guinea

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This is a memoir about my diplomatic journey to Equatorial Guinea, an ill-fated small Spanish-speaking country. I discuss the many stops along the way that finally led to my serving as U.S. ambassador to Spain's only former colony in sub-Saharan Africa. This is the story of a lifelong fascination with Spain that began with a strange tale my mother told me about a mysterious uncle who fought in the Spanish Civil War. My assignment to Equatorial Guinea was the last piece needed to complete a full circle in my professional life that began in Franco's Spain.

About the Author

Ambassador Mark Asquino has a thirty-seven year career in the Foreign Service. His overseas postings included assignments in Latin America, Europe, Central Asia and Africa. Before his recent retirement from the Department of State, he was U.S. Ambassador to the Republic of Equatorial Guinea (2012-2015). As a public diplomacy specialist, he directed large, overseas International Visitor Leadership Programs (IVLP).  As a former Fulbright American Studies lecturer in Spain (1975-1976) who has an academic Ph.D. in this field, he has first-hand experience with teaching and international educational exchange and he is also fluent in Spanish. He has worked with U.S. companies overseas to gain their Corporate Social Responsibility financial support for non-government initiatives in education, health and environmental protection.