– free movement, AI, food security and healthcare among priorities
– decisions aimed at delivering tangible benefits to Caribbean people
LEADERS of the CARIBBEAN Community (CARICOM) have agreed on a wide-ranging regional agenda aimed at strengthening co-operation to address shared challenges, CARICOM Chair and Prime Minister of Saint Lucia, Philip Pierre, said.
Delivering the post-meeting statement following the 51st Regular Meeting of the Conference of Heads of Government of CARICOM in Saint Lucia, Pierre said the bloc has taken several important decisions over four days of discussions that would position the Community to better respond to emerging opportunities and challenges.
He said the central focus of deliberations was ensuring that CARICOM “delivers results that people can see and feel in their everyday lives.”
Among the key outcomes was a commitment to strengthen regional co-operation to protect consumers, improve affordability and explore additional measures to provide relief to vulnerable households amid rising prices across the region.
Heads of Government also reported progress towards the free movement of CARICOM nationals, with additional member states advancing towards full participation in the initiative.
The leaders also agreed to accelerate efforts towards establishing an affordable intra-regional passenger service, which he said would improve travel, facilitate trade, strengthen food security and make the region more connected.
On economic resilience and food security, leaders reaffirmed their commitment to the Vision 25 by 2025 Plus Five initiative, which seeks to reduce the region’s food import bill and strengthen agricultural production.
Recognising the growing importance of technology, the regional leaders agreed to establish a Blue Ribbon Commission on Artificial Intelligence to guide the development of policies that would allow Caribbean countries to benefit from AI while managing associated risks responsibly.
Climate change and disaster resilience also featured prominently, with leaders reaffirming their commitment to limiting global warming to 1.5 degrees Celsius and advancing the interests of small island developing states.
Additionally, the regional bloc agreed to advance a regional insurance and reinsurance strategy to better protect people, infrastructure and economies from hurricanes and other natural disasters.
Meanwhile, in healthcare, CARICOM leaders endorsed stronger regional co-operation, including improved preparedness for emerging public health threats and expanded access to specialised healthcare services.
Against this backdrop, Pierre also announced that leaders approved a 10-point plan for reparations and even welcomed French Guiana as CARICOM’s newest associate member, following Martinique’s accession.
He said the decisions taken demonstrate that CARICOM remains “united in purpose and determined in action” as the region works towards a more resilient and prosperous future.
