The issues of health, economy, trade, transportation and climate change are central to discussions underway at the 31st meeting of the Caribbean Community (Caricom), where 15 member states, represented by their heads of government, plus five other associates, are participating.
Barbadian Prime Minister Mia Amor Mottley addressed the opening session in her capacity as Caricom president, and called on regional leaders to work together to achieve the essential aims of the organization, Prensa Latina reported.
She thanked outgoing Caricom president, Prime Minister Allen Chastanet of Saint Lucia, for his passion and commitment in dealing with climate change and fiscal sovereignty over the past six months.
Mottley emphasized the need for a common plan to combat a possible epidemic, referring to the coronavirus Covid-19 outbreak in several countries, mainly in Asia. This topic has been placed on the meeting’s agenda.
During the gathering, participating leaders are assessing progress made in implementing provisions of the Single Market and Economy agreement, and in this regard will hold discussions with representatives of the private sector, labor and civil society in the region.
They will additionally discuss efforts to promote initiatives on a telecommunications system for data collection; the challenges of sanctions; risks management; and the withdrawal of correspondent banking services.
Other items on the Summit agenda include collaboration with the African Union and analysis of regional issues such as crime, violence and security.
The meeting will continue today in Bridgetown, capital of Barbados, to build consensus in the region on critical issues.
