CARICOM | PM Skerrit optimistic about the future of the Caribbean Community

GEORGETOWN, Guyana, December 21, 2023 - Dominica's Prime Minister Roosevelt Skerrit, in his role as the Outgoing Chair of the Caribbean Community (CARICOM), has reflected on the organization's landmark 50th anniversary as a primary achievement as the year comes to a close.

 "Our Community made steady progress to advance our integration movement in 2023," Prime Minister Skerrit stated, commemorating the Golden Jubilee Anniversary of the signing of the original Treaty of Chaguaramas. 

Under the theme, “50 Years Strong: A Solid Foundation to Build On,” CARICOM paused for reflection on its substantial achievements since 1973, recommitting to the vision of its Founding Fathers for a prosperous, unified Community.

At the 45th Regular Meeting of the Conference of Heads of Government in Trinidad and Tobago, Prime Minister Skerrit highlighted pivotal decisions to enhance Caribbean unity. 

He emphasized the agreement to facilitate free movement of all CARICOM nationals within the Community, a testament to the region’s commitment to deeper integration. Additionally, measures to establish a regional capital market were advanced, in line with the Revised Treaty of Chaguaramas.

Skerrit proudly noted the progress in the 25 by 2025 food security initiative, with several Member States recording significant strides in reducing their food import bills and advancing food and nutrition security. 

The Caribbean Week of Agriculture in The Bahamas was a flagship event, fostering engagement with the private sector and leading to a critical Memorandum of Understanding aimed at combating food and nutrition insecurity and improving agricultural climate resilience.

The Prime Minister also addressed regional security, emphasizing efforts to navigate escalating border threats and the crisis in Haiti. 

He commended the interventions of the CARICOM-appointed Eminent Persons Group and international advocacy, culminating in a Framework Agreement for transitional governance in Haiti and consensus on several aspects of the draft Framework.

Highlighting CARICOM's initiatives in renewable energy and energy efficiency, Skerrit underscored the support of $20 million from USAID. 

This funding bolsters Caribbean companies with financial and technical assistance through the Caribbean Climate Investment Program. 

The establishment of the Prime Ministerial Sub-Committee on Climate Change was another significant step, ensuring coordination in international climate negotiations.

A major achievement in fostering regional and international partnerships, as Skerrit pointed out, was the opening of the CARICOM headquarters of the African Export-Import Bank in Barbados. This marked a new chapter in expanding Africa-Caribbean trade and investment relations.

Concluding his reflections, Prime Minister Skerrit expressed gratitude to his fellow Heads of Government and leaders across the Community for their contributions to CARICOM's mandate. 

He urged CARICOM citizens to recommit to pursuing the goal of a prosperous, healthy, and safe "Community for All" in the coming year, emphasizing the importance of collective action for the future of the Caribbean Community.

Prime Minister Roosevelt Skerrit, as the Outgoing Chair of CARICOM, further expounded on the strides made in various sectors throughout the year.

“In a year marked by both celebration and challenges, our Community has demonstrated resilience and a steadfast commitment to our common goals,” Skerrit remarked. 

He highlighted the collaborative efforts across member states in tackling key issues such as climate change, economic development, and regional security. These efforts, he noted, are essential for the sustainable development of the Caribbean region.

The Prime Minister also shed light on the importance of education and youth involvement in CARICOM's future. “Investing in our youth is investing in the future of our Community,” he said, emphasizing the launch of several initiatives aimed at empowering young people across the region. 

These initiatives include educational programs, youth entrepreneurship schemes, and cultural exchanges, all designed to foster a sense of Caribbean identity and unity among the younger generation.

As he looked forward to the future, Prime Minister Skerrit called for continued solidarity and collaboration among CARICOM nations. “The challenges we face as a region – be they economic, environmental, or social – require a united front,” he asserted. 

He encouraged member states to remain committed to the principles of cooperation and mutual support, which have been the cornerstone of CARICOM since its inception.

In his concluding remarks, Prime Minister Skerrit expressed optimism about the future of the Caribbean Community. “As we move forward, let us carry with us the spirit of unity and determination that has defined our journey so far. 

Together, we can build a Caribbean Community that is resilient, prosperous, and inclusive,” he concluded.

His message resonated with a sense of hope and commitment towards a brighter future for the Caribbean region, underlining the importance of unity and collective action in achieving the aspirations and goals of CARICOM.