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United Kingdom Ambassador Edward John Stevens (left) has formally assumed his duties in Costa Rica after presenting his letters of credence to Foreign Minister Arnoldo André (right) at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in San José. Photo courtesy of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

UK Ambassador Assumes Duties In Costa Rica

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Published on Wednesday, April 1, 2026

By the A.M. Costa Rica staff

United Kingdom Ambassador Edward John Stevens has formally assumed his duties in Costa Rica after presenting his letters of credence to Foreign Minister Arnoldo André at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in San José.

Stevens was appointed in January 2025 as the new U.K. ambassador to Costa Rica and Nicaragua, taking over leadership of the embassy following the departure of Benjamin Edward Noel Lyster-Binns.

In a video shared by the U.K. Embassy on social media, Stevens, who speaks fluent Spanish, said he was pleased to continue his diplomatic career in Costa Rica.

“As someone of Welsh descent, from a land known for its natural beauty, I am happy to be in a country that also protects nature,” he said.

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Ambassador Stevens highlighted the close relationship between the United Kingdom and Costa Rica, noting cooperation in areas including the economy, democracy, human rights, climate and security.

“During my time here, I want to continue strengthening this relationship,” he said. “I am very much looking forward to getting to know Costa Rica and experiencing its famous Pura Vida lifestyle.”

According to the UK Foreign & Commonwealth Office, Stevens joined the Diplomatic Service in 2019 and has held several roles in London, most recently serving as head of the Joint FCO Europe Group.

His previous overseas assignment was in Kathmandu, where he served as deputy ambassador from 2019 to 2022, officials said.

As ambassador, Stevens will oversee the direction and operations of the embassy and its consulates, including political affairs, trade and investment, press and cultural relations, and consular services.

He is living in Costa Rica with his wife and newborn daughter.

British citizens seeking additional information about Stevens may contact the embassy at (506) 2258-2025.

Earlier in March, Lyster-Binns concluded his diplomatic mission in Costa Rica after five years in the post.

Costa Rica and the United Kingdom have maintained bilateral relations for more than 175 years. Diplomatic ties were formally established in 1848, shortly after Costa Rica declared itself an independent republic. The two countries have collaborated in trade, education, environmental conservation and human rights.

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What will be Ambassador Stevens’ biggest challenge in Costa Rica? We would like to know your thoughts on this story. Send your comments to news@amcostarica.com