The Forty-Ninth Regular Meeting of the Conference of Heads of Government of the Caribbean Community (CARICOM) was held in Montego Bay, Jamaica from 6-8 July under the chairmanship of Dr the Most Honourable Andrew Holness, Prime Minister of Jamaica.
Members of the Conference in attendance were: Honourable Gaston Browne, Prime Minister of Antigua and Barbuda; Honourable Philip Davis, Prime Minister of the Commonwealth of The Bahamas; Honourable Mia Amor Mottley, Prime Minister of the Republic of Barbados; Honourable John Briceño, Prime Minister of Belize; His Excellency Dr Mohamed Irfaan Ali, President of the Cooperative Republic of Guyana; His Excellency Laurent Saint-Cyr, Councillor-President, Member of the Transitional Presidential Council, Haiti; Dr the Most Honourable Andrew Holness, Prime Minister of Jamaica; Honourable Terrance Drew, Prime Minister, Federation of St Kitts and Nevis; and Dr the Honourable Ralph Gonsalves, Prime Minister of St Vincent and the Grenadines.
Dr Vince Henderson, Minister of Foreign Affairs, International Trade and Energy represented the Commonwealth of Dominica; Honourable Joseph Andall, Minister for Foreign Affairs, Trade and Export Development represented Grenada; Honourable Veronica Dorsette Hector, Deputy Premier, represented Montserrat; Honourable Alva Baptiste, Minister of External Affairs, International Trade, Civil Aviation and Diaspora Affairs represented Saint Lucia; His Excellency Steven MacAndrew, Minister of Labour, Employment Opportunity and Youth Affairs represented the Republic of Suriname; Honourable Sean Sobers, Minister of Foreign and CARICOM Affairs,represented the Republic of Trinidad and Tobago.
Associate Members in attendance were Honourable E David Burt, Premier of Bermuda; Dr the Honourable Natalio Wheatley, Premier of the British Virgin Islands, His Excellency Gilmar Pisas, Prime Minister of Curacao; and Honourable Jamell Robinson, Deputy Premier of the Turks and Caicos Islands.
OPENING CEREMONY
The Opening Ceremony was held at the Montego Bay Convention Centre in Rose Hall, St James. The event featured remarks by leaders of the Community, and cultural items from several Jamaican performers. There was also a Declaration of solidarity from the CARICOM Youth Ambassadors for Jamaica which underscored their preparedness and desire to support the leaders of the Region in its development, prioritizing creativity, innovation and technology.
In her remarks, CARICOM Secretary General, Dr Carla Barnett noted that the collective action of CARICOM Member States has delivered many commendable results for the people of the Region, in human and social development, economic integration, foreign policy coordination, and security, which provide a useful roadmap for the way forward.
“Unprecedented global uncertainty, economic pressures, technological innovations that challenge our capacity to keep pace, climate vulnerability, and the needs of our young people, our women and future generations, compel us to act collectively, with courage and with conviction,” the Secretary-General said.
Prime Minister of Barbados and Outgoing Chair, Honourable Mia Amor Mottley noted that CARICOM has seen many challenges and urged the gathering to persevere and persist in efforts to advance and strengthen integration. Quoting from popular Jamaican artiste, Jimmy Cliff, she said “We can get it if we really want, but we must try and try and try.”
She pointed to support for Haiti, efforts to control disinformation, and the need to tackle crime and enhance citizen security, as some of the critical issues which the Community must continue to address. “We must be resolute in preserving CARICOM as a Zone of Peace and reaffirm our commitment to working with the international community to promote de-escalation, uphold diplomacy, and pursue lasting solutions grounded in dialogue and mutual respect”.
In his remarks, the new Chair, Dr the Most Honourable Andrew Holness said his Chairmanship would focus on regional security, especially as it relates to transnational organised crime and gangs, noting that it is critical that a global war on gangs be declared similar to the war on terror. The Prime Minister called for concerted action to dismantle criminal networks and cripple their resources.
“Our theme: People, Partnerships and Prosperity – Promoting a Secure and Sustainable Future” captures the essence of our regional purpose. It reflects a profound truth, that security and resilience are not optional; they are foundations for prosperity; that people-centered development and strategic partnerships are not aspirational, but essential,” the Prime Minister said.
He cited climate justice and climate finance, mobilizing support for Haiti, and strengthening internal coordination and external partnerships as critical to the ongoing work of the Community. Prime Minister Holness also stressed the importance of engaging young people in shaping the decisions that affect their future. He reminded that it was important to engage them in a deliberate, sustained and meaningful manner.
The opening ceremony can be viewed at: https://caricom.org/49hgc/
CARICOM SINGLE MARKET AND ECONOMY (CSME)
Implementation of Full Free Movement
To advance the goal of free movement of all Community nationals, Heads of Government, in accordance with the provisions of the Protocol on Enhanced Cooperation, authorised Barbados, Belize, Dominica and St Vincent and the Grenadines, the Participating Member States, to, among themselves, grant their nationals the right to enter, leave and re-enter, move freely, reside, work and remain indefinitely in the receiving Member State without the need for a work or residency permit. Their nationals will also be able to access emergency and primary health care, and public primary and secondary education, within the means of the receiving Member State.
The Participating Member States have agreed that the required legislative, security and administrative measures to support the free movement of their nationals will be undertaken and that free movement among them will commence on 1 October 2025.
Heads of Government also agreed to include aviation personnel among the categories of skilled Community nationals entitled to move freely within the Community under Article 46 of the Treaty. This category includes aircraft maintenance engineers, professional pilots, air traffic controllers, and flight operations officers.
EXTERNAL TRADE NEGOTIATIONS
The Heads of Government discussed developments in United States (US) trade policy which have introduced a marked shift in the bilateral trade relations which have been underpinned by the Caribbean Basin Initiative (CBI) trade preferential programmes for more than four decades. They agreed to continue the Community’s advocacy with the US Administration at the highest political level, to safeguard the Region’s trade interests with its most important trading partner.
They welcomed the tabling of a request by the US for a five-year WTO waiver for the CBI until 30 September 2030 and agreed that the Region would continue to engage constructively with the US Trade Representative to address the future bilateral trade relationship.
Heads of Government also agreed to deepen engagement with existing trading partners through the Joint Institutions established under the trade agreements concluded with these countries. They further agreed to pursue new market opportunities with non-traditional trading partners, in particular the African Union, Brazil and India.
CLIMATE CHANGE AND CLIMATE FINANCE
Heads of Government congratulated the Caribbean Community Climate Change Centre on its 20th Anniversary and recognised its significant support to the climate agenda of CARICOM Member States.
They emphasised that CARICOM will continue to focus on the special circumstances of Small Island Developing States (SIDS). They registered their concern at the apparent erosion of support amongst several governments of the developed world for the special circumstances of SIDS, and underscored that CARICOM negotiators must continue to make the case for those circumstances across the Climate Agenda.
They called on major economies to take urgent action to increase the ambition of their Nationally Determined Contributions in line with the outcomes of the first Global Stocktake of the Paris Agreement, and to fast-track implementation to keep 1.5 within reach.
The Conference registered support for the Global Biodiversity Alliance Summit to be convened by the Government of Guyana in Georgetown from 23 -25 July 2025.
As it relates to Climate Finance, Heads of Government reaffirmed support for the Bridgetown Initiative and reform of the international financial architecture, including an increased CARICOM representation in financial decision-making bodies.
Heads of Government expressed concern at the rising cost of insurance, insisting that it is a major barrier to climate resilience and threatens the viability and competitiveness of businesses in the Region.
They called for a significant portion of the $300 billion mobilisation goal under the New Collective Quantified Goal (NCQG) decision to be channeled through the multilateral climate funds under the UNFCCC, and for finance to be targeted to adaptation and loss and damage for SIDS.
They acknowledged that COP 30 must serve as a vehicle to mobilise climate finance that is predictable and accessible that prioritises SIDS and LDCs and is responsive to the Region’s needs and priorities.
Heads of Government approved the Revised Regional Framework prepared by the Caribbean Community Climate Change Center which outlines the strategic goals and priority actions to build regional climate resilience.
Heads of Government noted the recent publication of the Inter-American Court of Human Rights (IACHR) Advisory Opinion on “Climate Emergency and Human Rights”. The Advisory Opinion creates a legal framework for States to address the climate crisis from the human rights perspective. Through the Advisory Opinion, the IACHR has acknowledged the climate crisis as a threat to individuals and peoples which creates a legal framework for States to align climate policies with human rights.
FOOD AND NUTRITION SECURITY
Heads of Government approved the Formulation and Design Plan to expand the Vision 25 by 2025+5 food and nutrition security initiative. This Plan will allow for, inter alia, enactment of cross-cutting regional policies to support the sector including investment, establishment of businesses and movement of people; expansion of the stakeholder base to attract new capital and increased funding; and re-alignment of regional and national agricultural priorities.
His Excellency Dr Irfaan Ali, President of Guyana in keeping with his responsibility for food and nutrition security in the CARICOM Quasi-cabinet, outlined several successful Member State projects under the initiative in the last two years. He reported a marked region-wide increase in the involvement of women and youth in agriculture, and in nursery capacity, and commended regional governments for their commitment to the Initiative.
Heads of Government expressed their appreciation to President Ali for his continued dedication to the 25 by 2025+5 initiative. They welcomed the recent study identifying Guyana as the only food-sufficient country in the world as a plus for the Region’s efforts at food and nutrition security.
They noted that the Inter-American Board of Agriculture, at its forthcoming 23rd regular meeting in Brasilia in November 2025, was scheduled to elect a new Director General for the Inter-American Institute for Cooperation in Agriculture (IICA) for the period 2025 to 2030. They reaffirmed their full and unequivocal support for the candidacy of Dr Muhammad Ibrahim of Guyana, as one eminently qualified for the post, and called on other hemispheric partners to lend their valuable support for his election.
ENGAGEMENT WITH SPECIALLY INVITED GUESTS
His Excellency Valdecy Urquiza, Secretary-General of the International Criminal Police Organisation (INTERPOL)
Secretary-General Urquiza expressed his appreciation for the exchange with CARICOM. He reported that data shared by INTERPOL member countries and regional analysis show that the rise of criminal networks, narcotics trade and a surge in firearms trafficking are three of the most pressing security threats confronting Caribbean nations. He reported that the IMPACS/INTERPOL partnership agreement now guarantees the continued presence of INTERPOL’s Liaison Office in Barbados, representing a renewed and sustainable framework for long-term collaboration.
Heads of Government expressed their appreciation for his presence and perspectives. They acknowledged the existing and potential benefits of increased collaboration to deal effectively with major organised crime.
They requested further assistance of INTERPOL with technology deployment and monitoring mechanisms to support border protection measures.
They noted Guyana’s announcement that it would be hosting the scheduled INTERPOL Conference in 2026.
His Excellency Albert Ramdin, Secretary General of the Organization Of American States (OAS)
The Secretary-General thanked the Region for its active engagement in his election. He gave a comprehensive presentation addressing the challenges facing the global and hemispheric environments, including climate change, development financing, migration, threats to multilateralism, sovereignty and territorial integrity, political instability, and particularly, the unprecedented levels of uncertainty.
Heads of Government warmly congratulated the Secretary-General on the assumption of his new role, noting he was the first from CARICOM to be so designated. They welcomed his recommendation for the development of a Caribbean Community agenda in preparation for the Tenth Summit of the Americas, scheduled for December 2025 in Punta Cana, Dominican Republic.
THE SECOND CARICOM-AFRICAN UNION SUMMIT
The Summit is to be held in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, on 7 September 2025, which is also Africa -CARICOM Day. Heads of Government agreed to prioritise representation at the highest level and emphasised the importance of the ongoing engagement with the African continent.
A coordinating committee, to include Jamaica, Barbados and St Kitts and Nevis, along with the CARICOM Secretariat, will work with representatives of Ethiopia and the African Union Commission to advance the logistical and other preparations for the Summit.
Heads of Government encouraged engagement with the Caribbean diaspora in Ethiopia and the participation of representatives of Regional Pan-African organisations.
SECURITY ISSUES
Heads of Government adopted the Montego Bay Declaration on Transnational Organised Crime and Criminal Gangs (accessible via: https://caricom.org/montego-bay-declaration-transnational-organised-crime-and-gangs-6-8-july-2025-jamaica/ ) in keeping with their commitment to dismantle criminal networks that have been impacting peace and security across the Region.
They acknowledged that the Declaration, together with the 2024 George-Bridge Declaration of the Second Regional Symposium on Crime and Violence as a Public Health Issue, and the 2023 Needham’s Point Declaration, comprise the principles of a new Regional Security and Judicial Framework.
The Conference welcomed the report presented by the High-Level Representative on Law and Criminal Justice, as well as the outcomes of the first dialogue held between Heads of Government and Heads of Judiciary from across the Region.
Regional Centre of Excellence for Policing
Heads of Government received a proposal from Barbados for a Regional Centre of Excellence for Policing. The Centre would be a hub for skills and leadership training for police officers who will, in turn, use these skills to implement best police practices and drive behavioural/ cultural change in policing in their respective jurisdictions.
The Centre would be headquartered in a CARICOM jurisdiction and agency best positioned with existing infrastructure, capacity and other factors.
THE SITUATION IN HAITI
Heads of Government expressed grave concern over the degeneration of the humanitarian situation in Haiti, which now borders on famine. They committed to redouble the efforts of CARICOM Heads of Government to engage with all relevant actors for the mobilisation of resources for security support, and to provide direct humanitarian assistance.
They received an update from the Transitional Presidential Council on its activities and welcomed clarity on the situation provided by the CARICOM Eminent Persons Group.
They also received a proposal from the Secretary General of the OAS and noted commitments made through the OAS from several Latin American countries of direct and technical assistance to the Kenya-led MSS Mission and the Haitian National Police. Heads of Government agreed that urgent action is needed on the humanitarian crisis in Haiti and called on international partners to pay attention and to provide support which is needed to bring security and stability to Haiti.
REGIONAL TELECOMMUNICATIONS STRATEGY
Heads of Government noted the progress made towards developing a regional telecommunications strategy. To further advance this, they mandated the Working Group to also look at the role of Public Private Partnership Arrangements to finance the required investment in telecommunications infrastructure.
They also noted the need to finalise regulatory frameworks in conjunction with national regulatory authorities.
BORDER ISSUES
Belize – Guatemala and Belize – Honduras
Heads of Government received an update on the Belize – Guatemala and the Belize – Honduras cases before the International Court of Justice (ICJ).
The Conference also received, with concern, a report from Belize regarding the increased tensions in the Sarstoon River and the repeated maritime incursions by the Guatemalan military into Belize’s territorial and internal waters.
They underscored the obligation of Belize and Guatemala to refrain from any action which could exacerbate the dispute while the case is before the ICJ and reiterated the call for both countries to urgently fulfil their commitment to design a mechanism of cooperation for the Sarstoon River and maritime spaces, with the assistance of the OAS.
Heads of Government also expressed concern about the continued illegal activities by Guatemalans that result in the deforestation of Belize’s protected areas and biodiversity loss along the Belize-Guatemala border.
They acknowledged the valuable role of the OAS in accompanying the process of confidence building measures and called on the international community to increase support for the OAS Office in the Adjacency Zone.
Heads of Government reaffirmed their steadfast support for the sovereignty, territorial integrity and security of Belize.
Guyana- Venezuela
Heads of Government received an update on the latest developments concerning the Guyana-Venezuela controversy. They noted that although Venezuela purported to have held elections on 25 May 2025 for a “Governor” and “Legislative Council” in the so-called “Guayana Esequiba State”, in defiance of the May 1, 2025 order of the International Court of Justice, in fact no elections were held by Venezuela in the Essequibo region of Guyana.
Heads of Government encouraged Venezuela to submit its Rejoinder, the final written pleading in the case, by 11 August 2025, in compliance with the scheduling Order of the International Court of Justice.
Heads of Government reiterated their full support for the ongoing judicial process as the means for resolving the controversy peacefully, finally and in accordance with international law.
Heads of Government reiterated and underscored their unequivocal and unwavering support for the maintenance of the sovereignty and territorial integrity of Guyana.
COMMON LEGISLATION INITIATIVE ON SOCIAL MEDIA
Heads of Government expressed concern about the deleterious effect that social media and artificial intelligence (AI) generated images could have on children and vulnerable groups, and the recent cessation of efforts at content moderation by Big Tech companies.
They agreedto pursue a regional approach to develop a framework for digital safety and associated laws, to safeguard the mental health and wellbeing of Caribbean citizens, and to establish a Regional Digital Safety Commission to develop proposals to enhance online safety.
REPARATIONS
Heads of Government expressed their full support for Jamaica’s undertaking to file a petition to King Charles III for the referral of three questions to the Privy Council related to the United Kingdom’s (UK) historic mistreatment of enslaved Africans on plantations in Jamaica. It was agreed that this approach was another path toward seeking Reparatory Justice and that it carried potential to contribute to the CARICOM regional approach as set out in the Ten Point Plan
FINANCIAL REGUALTORY PROCEDURES
Heads of Government reiterated their commitment to tackle money laundering and terrorist financing, including through strengthened regulatory and policy measures, as well as through partnerships at regional, bi-regional and multilateral levels. They recognised that Anti-money Laundering (AML) measures are critical for maintaining financial integrity. Heads of Government noted the significant reforms undertaken by Caribbean States to fully address the recommendations of the Financial Action Task Force (FATF) and the OECD’s tax transparency standards.
They further noted that Member States’ efforts have been acknowledged by the recent full delisting of Barbados and Jamaica by FATF, as well as by the European Commission’s recommendation to the European Parliament, via its Delegated Regulation of June 2025, that these two Caribbean countries be delisted.
REGIONAL TRANSPORTATION
Heads of Government thanked the CARICOM Private Sector Organisation (CPSO) and Ferry Operators NSG for their detailed proposal on the operations of a regional ferry service. They agreed to establish a Sub-Committee comprising Heads of Government of St. Vincent and the Grenadines, Barbados, Guyana and Trinidad and Tobago, to work with the CPSO and NSG to develop financial proposals to have an operational ferry service.
They also agreed to establish a Sub-Committee of the Foreign Ministers of Barbados, Jamaica, Saint Lucia, and Trinidad and Tobago, to address the free movement of intra-regional trade, including customs procedures, insurance and drivers’ licenses to facilitate the smooth operation of the ferry service.
ASSOCIATE MEMBERS
Heads of Government commended the British Virgin Islands on their completion of the governance reform programme and noted the difficulties posed by the Order in Council that can impose direct colonial rule on the BVI.
Heads of Government agreed to expedite negotiations with Bermuda on its application for full membership.
CARICOM INDUSTRIAL POLICY
Heads of Government noted the ongoing work to prepare a CARICOM Industrial Policy and Strategy, which will promote government interventions and policies to encourage, support, coordinate and improve the capability of specific industries, sectors and firms to achieve and sustain regional competitiveness.
REGIONAL POPULATION COMMISSION
Heads of Government noted the ongoing efforts to establish a Regional Population Commission, which is expected to inform a CARICOM Population Policy to address projected population trends, and formulate strategic approaches to reconciling population growth with regional development objectives.
CARIFESTA XV
Heads of Government welcomed the update provided on CARIFESTA XV to be held from 22 -31 August in Barbados under the theme “Caribbean Roots – Global Excellence”. Heads of Government expressed full support to Barbados for its hosting of CARIFESTA XV.
THE ENHANCED ROLE OF YOUTH IN REGIONAL DEVELOPMENT
Heads of Government noted that a report has been prepared by youth of the Region on the enhanced role of young people in the Community.
The report was informed by regional consultations and calls for youth to be more incorporated in Caribbean development through structured and well-resourced action, and for youth development to be embedded as a core pillar of regional integration and progress.
CARICOM EDUCATION TRANSFORMATION COMMISSION
Heads of Government noted a report on the steps taken so far to establish a Commission to drive a unified equity-based regional education agenda. They looked forward to its early convening.
SURINAME
Suriname advised that its new President, Her Excellency Jennifer Geerlings-Simons, the first female to hold this position, will be sworn in on 16 July 2025. Outgoing President, His Excellency Chandrikapersad Santokhi, expressed his appreciation to the Conference, the CARICOM Secretar- General, staff of the Secretariat, and the wider CARICOM family, for their enduring partnership and solidarity.
The Government of Suriname underscored its ongoing commitment to the ideals and goals of the integration movement.
Heads of Government registered their thanks and appreciation to the outgoing President for his commitment and partnership in support of regional integration.
CONDOLENCE
The Conference expressed its condolences to the loved ones and colleagues of Rickey Singh, a Caribbean son of the soil and journalist, who passed away on 5 July 2025 in Barbados. They noted his passionate advocacy for CARICOM, and that his dedicated reporting and analysis of regional issues facilitated a deeper understanding of the Caribbean Community.
INVITATION
The Conference noted an invitation from Grenada to the AfriCaribbean Trade and Investment Forum (ACTIF) to be held July 28 – 29, 2025.
APPRECIATION
Heads of Government expressed their gratitude to the Government and people of Jamaica for the excellent arrangements made for the Meeting, and the warm hospitality they received.
DATE AND VENUE OF NEXT REGULAR MEETING
Heads of Government accepted the invitation of the Prime Minister of St Kitts and Nevis to the 50th Regular Meeting of the Conference in Basseterre from 25 – 27 February 2026.
DECLARATION
The Conference issued the following Declaration:
TRANSNATIONAL ORGANISED CRIME AND GANGS
JULY 6-8, 2025
JAMAICA
We, the Heads of Government of the Caribbean Community (CARICOM) meeting in Montego Bay, Jamaica from July 6-8, 2025, on the occasion of the 49th Regular Meeting of the Conference of Heads of Government of CARICOM:
Remaining deeply concerned and alarmed bythe surge of gun crime and violence across the Caribbean region, driven by the proliferation of illegal firearms and activities of gangs and/or organised criminal groups, which continue to pose a serious threat to the region, its institutions of governance, and the very fabric of our societies,
Underscoring our commitmentto addressthe concerns of our peoples, regarding the impact of organised crime and illicit trafficking on their communities, livelihood, and security,
Cognisant of the current global security threats and the potential impact on the stability and socioeconomic progress of our societies,
Recalling the decision to collaborate on implementing measures to address crime, violence, and national security, and the implications for public health, that directly result from gang activities and the illegal importation of guns into our region,
Renewing ourcommitment tostrengthening the Region’s response by implementing effective measures to monitor new trends in illicit firearms trafficking, enact robust legislation to include stringent penalties for firearm and gang-related offences, and to strengthen public awareness on the issues relating to the prevention and prosecution of all forms of organised criminal activities,
Determined to create societies characterised by productivity, prosperity, peace, and security,
1. Reaffirm our commitment to continue efforts to complete a comprehensive review of the criminal justice system to, inter alia, address criminal terrorists with a focus on the proactive management of investigations, prosecutions, and sentencing, while also expanding programmes aimed at the early identification and positive redirection of young people who may be at risk of social exclusion or vulnerability to crime;
2. Agree to strengthen the regional institutional security structures, to include the CARICOM Implementation Agency for Crime and Security (IMPACS), and implementation of programmes such as the Caribbean Basin Security Initiative (CBSI), to effectively enhance collaboration and sharing of information, to disrupt criminal networks, as well as, leverage shared resources to enable law enforcement and support border security efforts;
3. Reinforce national anti-gang strategies to more effectively monitor and disrupt gang movement and their linkages to cross border firearm-related crimes within CARICOM;
4. Recognise the importance of undertakingthe development or amendment of national legislation to effectively combat gun crimes, the illicit trade in arms and ammunition, trafficking offences in all forms, especially human trafficking as one of the most heinous crimes against humanity;
5. Commit to the development and implementation of comprehensive counter-narcotics strategies, through enhanced cooperation, resource sharing, and sustained policy engagement.
6. Resolve to integrate into the formal economy, rule of law, and governance systems, under governed spaces that provide, or can provide safe havens to criminal organisations.
Issued in Montego Bay, Jamaica on Tuesday, July 8, 2025, on the occasion of the 49th Regular Meeting of the Conference of Heads of Government of the Caribbean Community (CARICOM).
STATEMENT
Heads of Government issued the following Statement:
STATEMENT FROM THE CARIBBEAN COMMUNITY (CARICOM) HEADS OF GOVERNMENT ON THE HUMANITARIAN CATASTROPHE IN GAZA
We, the Heads of Government of CARICOM, are profoundly distressed by the escalating and appalling situation in Gaza, now an unprecedented humanitarian catastrophe. We express grave concern over the immense, unabated suffering and tragic loss of civilian lives, particularly women and children.
CARICOM has consistently called for an immediate, unconditional, and sustained ceasefire and unimpeded humanitarian access. These urgent calls have largely gone unheeded, leading to a crisis of unparalleled proportions. Relentless military operations, including indiscriminate bombardment and direct attacks on aid-seeking civilians, flagrantly violate international humanitarian law.
We are appalled by UN and humanitarian reports depicting widespread hunger, disease, and displacement, deliberately exacerbated by deprivation of basic necessities such as food, water, medicine. Critical fuel shortages further threaten to halt all lifesaving services. The weaponization of essential resources is morally repugnant, intolerable and unconscionable.
We unequivocally condemn all violence against civilians, including the abhorrent 7 October 2023 attacks and hostage-taking. We equally condemn the disproportionate military response, actions contravening international law, and systematic undermining of peace by illegal settlement expansion. The unacceptable dismantling of humanitarian mechanisms, replacing UN-led coordination with military control, demonstrably leads to further civilian casualties.
CARICOM reaffirms its unwavering commitment to a two-state solution as the only viable path to comprehensive, just, and lasting peace between Israelis and Palestinians, consistent with UN Security Council Resolutions and international law. We lament the belligerent and continued disregard for these resolutions, urging the international community to redouble efforts for strict adherence and enforcement.
We, the Heads of Government, urgently demand an immediate ceasefire. There must be full, safe, and unimpeded humanitarian access throughout Gaza, ensuring vital aid, including fuel, medical supplies, food, and water, reaches all in need without delay. We call for an immediate and unconditional release of all hostages and detainees. We demand an end to forced displacement of Palestinians and protection of civilians in accordance with international humanitarian law. It is imperative that there is accountability for all violations of international law, with perpetrators brought to justice.
We, the Heads of Government, reiterate our solidarity with all victims and urge maximum diplomatic efforts for a durable solution to the legitimate security and humanitarian concerns of all parties. The international community cannot stand idly by while this catastrophe deepens.
CARICOM stands ready to support all constructive initiatives for a lasting peace that meets the legitimate aspirations for security, dignity, and stability of all Israelis, Palestinians, and peoples in the wider Middle East.
8 July 2025
####
Dated: 11 July 2025
]]>In his remarks at the opening of a National Consultations on CSME Implementation Arrangements and Procedures in Trinidad and Tobago, Dr. Browne said that the CSME goes beyond an economic structure, embodying a shared vision of strength, unity, and prosperity for Small Island Developing States (SIDS).
He stated that the CSME represents CARICOM’s collective goal to foster an environment where businesses can flourish, investments can move freely, and people can work and contribute meaningfully across the region.
“The CSME is a testament to the principle that our greatest strength lies in collaboration and that by working together, we can achieve far more than we ever could alone,” said the Trinidad and Tobago Foreign Minister.
You can read the full text of Dr. Browne’s speech below.
———
Remarks by Sen. the Hon. Dr Amery Browne | at the National Consultations on CSME Implementation Arrangements and Procedures | Trinidad and Tobago | 18 March 2025
It is my distinct honour and privilege to welcome you all to this important National Consultations on CARICOM Single Market and Economy (CSME) Implementation Arrangements and Procedures.
I am especially pleased to extend a warm welcome to His Excellency, Wayne McCook, Assistant Secretary-General, Single Market and Trade Directorate of the CARICOM Secretariat, along with his esteemed delegation. This distinguished group includes the Director of the CARICOM Single Market Unit, the Assistant General Counsel, the Communications Specialist, the Deputy Programme Manager of the Free Movement and Labour Unit and the Senior Project Officer of the Customs and Trade Policy Unit. Your presence here today underscores the shared commitment to deepening regional integration and strengthening the mechanisms that drive our collective progress.
Ladies and gentlemen, the CSME is the cornerstone of regional integration. It provides a robust framework for economic cooperation, resilience, and sustainable growth. At its core are five fundamental pillars; the free movement of labour, goods, capital, services, and the right of establishment, which collectively create the foundation for a more dynamic and integrated regional economy.
However, the CSME is far more than an economic construct; it is a shared vision of strength, unity and prosperity for our Small Island Developing States (SIDS). It reflects our collective aspiration to create an environment where businesses can thrive, investment can flow freely and our people can move, work, and contribute meaningfully across the region. The CSME is a testament to the principle that our greatest strength lies in collaboration and that by working together, we can achieve far more than we ever could alone.
For these reasons, upon assuming the Chairmanship of CARICOM in January of this year, the Prime Minister of Barbados in concert with Trinidad and Tobago and other Heads of Government, underscored the urgency of resuming the full implementation of the CSME. This will allow Member States continue to navigate the lingering effects of the COVID-19 pandemic, the external shocks of climate change and the impacts of global geopolitical developments. Prime Minister Mottley highlighted that the free movement of all CARICOM nationals is fundamental to this vision, stating, and I quote, that free movement is essential for “unlocking the true potential of our peoples and our economies.”
In response to this critical call to action, CARICOM Heads of Government, at the recently concluded Forty-Eighth Regular Meeting of the Conference, agreed to implement full and free movement of all CARICOM nationals by 1 June 2025. This regime will be facilitated through the Protocol on Enhanced Cooperation, allowing Member States that are ready to advance this initiative, to do so, in a coordinated manner.
Significantly, this commitment extends beyond the facilitation of orderly migration; it ensures that CARICOM nationals will benefit from basic social benefits, including guarantees for access to primary and secondary education, access to emergency and primary healthcare, the right to indefinite stay and the right to work without a work permit. This decision marks a transformative milestone in our regional integration agenda, our collective determination to uphold the vision of CARICOM’s founding fathers and deliver meaningful, tangible benefits to the citizens of our Community.
At the national level, Trinidad and Tobago has been steadfast in its commitment to this goal. Since the announcement of full and free movement at the Forty-Fifth Regular Meeting of the Conference in July 2023, significant strides have been made to operationalize this critical aspect of the CSME. Recognizing the importance of labour mobility, the Ministry of Foreign and CARICOM Affairs established the Domestic Legislative Drafting Committee (DLDC). This dedicated team of twenty-five (25) legal and technical experts undertook a comprehensive review of sixty (60) pieces of domestic legislation, to identify and address legal and regulatory barriers to full and free movement.
In January of this year, I had the opportunity to apprise Cabinet of the Committee’s progress, including the prioritization of legislative amendments to key laws such as the Immigration Act, the Immigration (Caribbean Community Skilled Nationals) Act, and the Motor Vehicles and Road Traffic Act. Additionally, the Committee provided actionable recommendations aimed at introducing relevant regulations and establishing appropriate orders to ensure the benefits under the full and free movement regime are realized. I wish to assure you that Trinidad and Tobago is steadfast in its commitment to fulfilling its obligations under the Revised Treaty of Chaguaramas (RTC) and remains dedicated to the full implementation of the CSME.
With this in mind, I encourage my colleagues present to make full use of these National Consultations. Engage meaningfully with the CARICOM Secretariat officials to ensure timely implementation in your respective areas, whether that be trade in goods, regional transportation, food security and nutrition, regional financial initiatives or ratifying the requisite Protocols. This platform can significantly boost our national efforts.
To the private sector, your role in this process is equally important. Full and free movement expands access to skilled labour, facilitates business growth, streamlines operations and fosters meaningful regional business partnerships. Your continued support for the CSME is vital to the success of our economic integration.
Furthermore, I also encourage continued partnership between International Organizations present and regional bodies. By sharing global best practices and leveraging international support, this region can drive innovation, attract investment and position our economies for sustained growth in an increasingly competitive and uncertain world.
In closing, I wish to extend best wishes to the CARICOM Secretariat for the success of these consultations. Your unwavering commitment to ensuring the full implementation of the CSME across Member States is truly commendable, and the entire region greatly relies on your diligence and expertise. I have full confidence that your engagements with Government Ministers, Permanent Secretaries, the private sector, the media, The University of the West Indies, and, for the first time, the Tobago House of Assembly (THA) will be both productive and impactful.
I leave you in the capable hands of the outstanding team from the CSME Unit in the Ministry, who will undoubtedly steer this process with hard work and dedication. These national consultations present us with a unique and invaluable opportunity to refine our strategies, address any existing gaps, and work together on solutions that will help create a more cohesive and effective regional framework.
Let us move forward with shared determination, collaboration and unity, confident that we have the collective strength to ensure that the CSME becomes a meaningful reality for all.
I thank you.
This was highlighted during the virtual accreditation of His Excellency Gerard Jean-Jacques as Dominica’s new Ambassador to CARICOM.
“Dominica’s leadership in regional integration, especially in advancing the movement of people through the work of the Prime Minister of Dominica in his Quasi-Cabinet responsibility for Labour (including intra-Community Movement of Skills), has benefited the Region, raising expectation that at long last the aspiration for Free Movement across the Region can come to pass,” the Secretary-General stated.
CARICOM SG delivering remarks at the virtual accreditation ceremony
She also referenced Dr. Jean-Jacques’ appointment to the CARICOM Committee of Ambassadors, stating,
“Today marks your appointment to the CARICOM Committee of Ambassadors, which provides strategic advice, recommendations, and support to the Community Council of Ministers. Members of the Committee of Ambassadors have a key role in implementing Community decisions at the national level. Implementation by and in Member States is the crucial step which ensures that Community decisions have a positive impact on the citizens of the Community.”
Underscoring the importance of this role in strengthening the CARICOM identity, the Secretary-General added,
“When Members of the CARICOM Committee of Ambassadors engage with citizens to promote the objectives, programmes and benefits of CARICOM, there is greater knowledge of the important link between regional and national interests, which is essential to fostering a strong sense of Community and strengthening the CARICOM identity.”
Dr. Jean-Jacques expressed Dominica’s commitment to collaborating with CARICOM on issues like climate change, renewable energy, food security, housing, education, health, cost of living, and sustainable finance.
“One common denominator in addressing all these issues is the fast-changing geopolitical configurations. They create real challenges to our ability to achieve our common development goals and secure prosperity and wellbeing for our people. Yet, this reality creates new opportunities for CARICOM,” the new Dominican envoy stated. He added,
“We must now strategise to reconfigure our networks, intra-CARICOM and extra-CARICOM, so that we develop new and sustained avenues of resources and political support. This in no way suggests that we abandon our traditional friends, but instead, as Dominica has shown, CARICOM member states must quickly embrace opportunities that exist among ourselves and create new partnerships with States and entities that share our goals and values. Let us consider such a strategy as part of a first step towards our sustainability and the political consolidation of the Community.”
The CARICOM Secretary-General also recently accredited His Excellency Ruslan Rzayev, new Ambassador of Azerbaijan to CARICOM.
New envoy of Azerbaijan to CARICOM displaying his Letters of Credence during the virtual accreditation ceremony
During an interaction following the virtual accreditation, they discussed advancing CARICOM-Azerbaijan cooperation in climate resilience, economic development, and education.
Dr Barnett expressed the Community’s appreciation to Azerbaijan for its financial support to Grenada and St. Vincent and the Grenadines following the devastation caused by Hurricane Beryl’s in those Member States, mid-2024.
CARICOM Heads of Government are expected to meet by the middle of March for anticipated sign-off
on the arrangements to facilitate the free and full movement of CARICOM nationals by the end of that
month, the Hon. Mia Mottley, Prime Minister of Barbados, said Wednesday. Free movement of
CARICOM nationals is one of the pillars of the CARICOM Single Market and Economy. The Barbados
Prime Minister is the Lead Head of Government with responsibility for the CSME in the CARICOM Quasi
Cabinet.
Prime Minister Mottley was at the time participating in the closing press conference of the 46th Regular
Meeting of the Conference of Heads of Government of CARICOM which was held in Georgetown,
Guyana, over the period 25-28 February.
The Prime Minister told representatives of the media that the Community is on track to fulfil the
mandate Heads of Government gave at their historic 50th anniversary Meeting in Trinidad and Tobago
in July last year for free and full movement of CARICOM nationals from 31 March 2024.
She affirmed that there are two outstanding matters that must be resolved before full free movement
can be operationalized. These two policy issues were referred to Heads for settlement by the intergovernmental task force on free movement. The task force will meet on 7 March and the Community’s Legal Affairs Committee will sign off on the draft decisions the following day.
“Heads of Government will meet on the 15th of March with the hope that we can sign off in time for
the deadline given in Trinidad of the 31st of March for the full freedom of movement of people. As you
know, people have the right to move now for six months without question. What we are talking about
is removing that six-month constraint, but we equally have to understand what are the minimum rights
that are guaranteed to our citizens when they move from one country to the other and those are being
resolved and settled now,” Prime Minister Mottley said.
We committed as part of our excellent support to our neighbours to accommodate students whose education had become disrupted as a consequence of the ravages by the two Hurricanes.
I am advised that, so far, some 72 students of preschool, primary and secondary school age are being accommodated in our schools from 7 countries namely: Anguilla (15), BVI (24), Dominica (15), the mainland USA (6), St Thomas (3), and St Maarten (9).
Of the 72 students being accommodated here, 35 are in our secondary schools, 34 are in our primary schools and 3 are in our preschools.
Additionally, 52 of these students have applied for and received assistance from our Social Services Department.
St. Kitts and Nevis Prime Minister Dr. Denzil Douglas at a Press Conference on Thursday 26 October 2017
]]>[CARICOM has launched an online application forum to allow citizens of the regions to move freely and work in any member states.]
CARICOM has launched an online application forum to allow citizens of the regions to move freely and work in any member states.
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs, in its announcement yesterday, said that the CARICOM Single Market and Economy (CSME) Application Processing System (CAPS) is a crucial component of a larger initiative to make the rights of citizens in the region more accessible and to ensure a higher level of efficiency and effectiveness in the processing of these rights.
“The CAPS is a fully integrated web-based information management system and will facilitate the movement of skilled persons and temporary service providers across the 12 participating member states, by efficiently processing a significant number of documents which fall under the different processes,” the Foreign Affairs Ministry explained.
The system was developed in 2014 under the Canadian-funded CARICOM Trade and Competitiveness Project and is expected to contribute to the achievement of the full integration of the national markets of member states of the Community into a single, unified and open market area.
“In addition to this, the CAPS also responds to mandates as captured in the Revised Treaty of Chaguaramas which among other things, calls for the modernisation of Governments bureaucracies. In addition to addressing these specific treaty mandates, the system will also generate reliable data on movement in the Single Market.”
The absence of information has been a challenge for the community and member states which have been grappling with the issue of data collection in the implementation of the CSM, the ministry disclosed yesterday.
“Since its development there has been extensive training on the CAPS both at the national and regional levels and member states have readied their national operations to facilitate the use of the CAPS. Following discussions on the launch of the CAPS, the decision was taken to start the implementation of the CAPS on 1 November 2016,” the ministry said.
“In light of the above, interested persons are invited to start using the online tool and send their electronic application. The website is caps.caricom.org.”
The ministry asked that persons interested in more information on the issuance of the CARICOM Skilled Certificates in Guyana to make contact with its CARICOM Unit located on its office.
In recent years, more and more persons have been applying for the certificates which have allowed them to gain employment in CARICOM member states.
Resource persons from the Secretariat will conduct the sensitization exercise which will cover the following areas: the facilitation of hassle-free travel, movement of skilled CARICOM nationals, the right of establishment and the provision of services. Participants will also be apprised of the CARICOM Complaints Procedure which nationals can use if they feel that they have been denied access to any of the regimes as they travel to other member states. Additionally, they will be informed of their responsibilities as citizens who seek to move under any of the free movement regimes of the CSME. The session also provides an opportunity for labour stakeholders to have any issues clarified regarding free movement or to make recommendations.
Another such session will be convened in Antigua and Barbuda on Friday, October 28 with similar stakeholders. There are plans to have these free movement sensitization exercises in other CSME-participating member states in the coming months and in early 2017. This initiative forms part of the CARICOM Secretariat’s effort to ensure that all stakeholders are informed of the CSME provisions thereby securing buy-in and active participation in the Single Market and Economy.
]]>The public sensitization exercise will cover the provisions for free movement and travel under the CSME regimes such as those for CARICOM Skilled Nationals and the Right of Establishment, for example. The aim is to inform CARICOM citizens of their rights and responsibilities as they move within the CSME for reasons related to employment, leisure or business. Members of the public will also be apprised of the CARICOM Complaints Procedure if they feel that they were hindered from accessing their rights under any of the regimes. At the end of these sessions, participants should be better informed about the provisions for free movement and how to make use of them as CARICOM nationals.
The session will be held at the Goodwill Christian Union Church and officials from Dominica’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade will be in attendance. This public awareness activity is part of a larger public education strategy to promote the CSME as an important platform for achieving the goal of regional integration and an improved quality of life for all citizens of the Caribbean Community.
]]>
Other members of the Conference in attendance were Prime Minister of Antigua and Barbuda, Honourable Gaston Browne; Prime Minister of The Bahamas, Rt. Honourable Perry Christie; Prime Minister of Barbados, Rt. Honourable Freundel Stuart; Prime Minister of Grenada, Dr. the Rt. Honourable Keith Mitchell; President of Guyana, His Excellency Brigadier (Ret) David Granger; Prime Minister of Jamaica, Most Honourable Andrew Holness; Prime Minister of St. Kitts and Nevis, Dr. the Honourable Timothy Harris; Prime Minister of Saint Lucia, Honourable Allen Chastanet; Prime Minister of St. Vincent and the Grenadines, Dr. the Honourable Ralph Gonsalves; President of Suriname, His Excellency Desiré Bouterse; and Prime Minister of Trinidad and Tobago, Dr. the Honourable Keith Rowley.
Belize was represented by the Honourable Wilfred Elrington, Minister of Foreign Affairs. Haiti was represented by Prime Minister, His Excellency Enex Jean-Charles. Montserrat was represented by Hon. Delmaude Ryan, Deputy Premier and Minister of Education, Health and Community Services.
The Associate Member in attendance was Turks and Caicos Islands represented by Mr Ronlee James, Head of Secretariat at Office of the Premier.
Also in attendance as an invited guest was Her Excellency Michelle Bachelet, President of Chile
OPENING CEREMONY
The Opening Ceremony was addressed by the Secretary-General of the Caribbean Community (CARICOM) Ambassador Irwin LaRocque; Prime Minister of Jamaica, the Most Honourable Andrew Holness; Prime Minister of Saint Lucia, the Honourable Allen Chastanet; Prime Minister of St. Vincent and the Grenadines, Dr. the Honourable Ralph Gonsalves; the President of Suriname, His Excellency Desiré Bouterse; Prime Minister of Trinidad and Tobago, Dr. the Honourable Keith Rowley; and the Chairman of the Conference, the Prime Minister of Dominica, Honourable Roosevelt Skerrit.
All the speakers paid tribute to the former Prime Minister of Trinidad and Tobago, Mr. Patrick Manning, who passed away on 2 July 2016, just prior to the Meeting of Conference.
In his remarks, the Secretary-General said that as the Community celebrated 43 years there was “ample evidence over the four decades of the value and benefit of pooling our skills and resources.” He also outlined some of the areas that the Conference would address including correspondent banking, crime and security, non-communicable diseases, free movement, the regional economy, the CARICOM Single Market and Economy (CSME) and on the foreign affairs front the United Kingdom’s vote to leave the European Union
The President of Suriname His Excellency Desiré Bouterse called for swifter action on diversification of the regional economy. He proposed that the services industries be developed to the point where they became “solid foreign currency earners” characterised by sustainability. He urged Member States, particularly those dependent on the extractive sectors, to come together and brainstorm on solutions to the myriad challenges confronting them.
The Prime Minister of Jamaica the Most Honourable Andrew Holness called for the movement of labour throughout the Caribbean Community to be made as easy as that of the movement of goods. Prime Minister Holness emphasised that for many, including the man in the street, freedom of movement represented a tangible benefit of regional integration. He also advised that Jamaica would be pursuing increased bilateral relationships with its CARICOM counterparts.
The Prime Minister of Saint Lucia the Honourable Allen Chastanet said that the promise of regional integration is “slowly starting to put some flesh on our bones in some areas.” He added that policies and structures that were languishing needed to be reviewed so that new and more effective ones could be put in place. He challenged the Region not to be afraid to do more as it had already demonstrated its ability to punch above its weight in the international community.
The Prime Minister of St. Vincent and the Grenadines Dr. the Honourable Ralph Gonsalves said that CARICOM needed to deepen the integration process. Further, he stressed the need to acknowledge the achievements and “see how we can build on them rather than beating up on ourselves needlessly.” He warned against pessimism and a learned helplessness. Notwithstanding all the challenges of regionalism, Prime Minister Gonsalves reaffirmed the primacy of completing the CARICOM Single Market and Economy for continued progress in the Region.
The Prime Minister of Trinidad and Tobago, Dr the Honourable Keith Rowley affirmed the importance of CARICOM to his country. He pledged to continue the legacy of former Trinidadian Prime Minister, the late Patrick Manning, whom he described as “a Caribbean man who was committed to excellence and to the Caribbean Community. He pointed out that security was central to the economy, well-being, progress and quality of life of the Community.
Chairman of the Conference, the Prime Minister of Dominica Honourable Roosevelt Skerrit reminded the audience that CARICOM was a primary community built on empathy and caring for each other. He said that at the individual level this is continuously being reinforced, whenever or wherever people interact.
The Prime Minister called on all to work together to strengthen cooperation and collaboration so as to create a stronger, more vibrant community. “Let us therefore focus more closely on what needs to be done to strengthen CARICOM, to make it more economically competitive and generate resources to sustain our togetherness. Our resilience is being tested more than before, but we have proven time and again that we are strong”. the Chairman said.
TRIBUTE TO MR. PATRICK MANNING
Heads of Government of the Caribbean Community expressed their deep sadness at the passing of the former Prime Minister of Trinidad and Tobago, Mr Patrick Manning, who died on Saturday 2 July 2016 just prior to the Meeting of Conference.
Mr. Manning displayed the finest qualities of regionalism and had an unswerving commitment to building his country and the wider CARICOM. His progressive ideas for strengthening the regional integration movement led to many initiatives which redounded to the enhancement of the sense and spirit of community among our Member States.
Mr Manning’s genuine desire to create a more equitable Community led to such initiatives as the Petroleum Stabilisation Fund which he established as a facility to provide Member States with financial assistance. This was a tangible demonstration of goodwill to and solidarity with Member States faced with high oil prices from which his country benefitted.
His view of Trinidad and Tobago’s role in CARICOM went beyond the financial as he routinely rendered unselfish and immediate support to Member States in times of natural disasters.
As Lead Prime Minister for Security in the CARICOM quasi-cabinet, he oversaw the security arrangements for the Cricket World Cup 2007 and his proposals led to the formation of the CARICOM Task Force on Crime and Security. The implementation of its recommendations improved the nature and quality of co-operation in that area leading to the establishment of very important agencies and institutions which continue to serve and protect the Community’s security interests. It also resulted in Security Co-operation being adopted as the fourth pillar of our integration movement.
Mr Manning’s deep concern about the ravages of Chronic Non-Communicable Diseases, as highlighted by the Region’s experts, led to the historic regional summit on the issue. As we approach the 10th Anniversary of the Port-of-Spain Declaration on NCDs, we recall that his vision of the dangers posed by these scourges spurred the Community to be at the forefront of a successful proposal for a United Nations High Level Meeting on NCDs.
His humanity and personal interest in the well-being of others were outstanding attributes of his character and were highly appreciated by all, both within and outside the Community. His invaluable contribution to our Community stemmed from his conviction that integration was the most viable option for the sustainable development of our small states and the improvement of the lives of our people.
Trinidad and Tobago and the Caribbean Community have lost a truly remarkable person and statesman whose legacy of committed service to country and Region left an indelible mark on the history of this Region and will remain a treasured memory.
Heads of Government expressed their deepest condolences to the family of Mr Manning and the Government and People of Trinidad and Tobago
REGIONAL SECURITY
In light of the continued threats to the Region’s security, Heads of Government agreed on ways to deepen and strengthen co-operation in this area. In that regard, they approved a review of the CARICOM Crime and Security Strategy (CCSS).
They emphasised the importance of aligning national security plans to the CCSS in order to avoid duplication in intervention support.
Heads of Government also stressed the important role IMPACS continued to play in the Community’s effort to address crime and security and reaffirmed their commitment to strengthen the Institution.
Heads of Government agreed that urgent steps should be taken for completion of a number of critical regional security agreements. They prioritised the completion of the CARICOM Arrest Warrant Treaty, an essential instrument to address cross-border crime.
They agreed that this Treaty should be finalised before the end of the current year.
CARICOM SINGLE MARKET AND ECONOMY
Heads of Government received an update on the status of the CSME and agreed that a comprehensive review would be considered at the Inter-Sessional Meeting next February. They also agreed that there should be an intensified public education campaign in Member States aimed at all levels of the society. The education programme should highlight the benefits and provisions of the CSME.
Heads of Government received an update on the work of the CARICOM Commission on the Economy which focussed on fiscal sustainability, private sector stimulation, business regulatory environment, transitioning to sustainable growth and resource mobilisation. Heads of Government also approved continuing initiatives in these areas.
Heads of Government received a report of the economic performance of Member States in 2015 which showed mixed results. They noted the technical support given by the Caribbean Development Bank (CDB), Caribbean Export, Inter-American Development Bank (IDB), and the United Nations Economic Commission for Latin America (UNECLAC) to the work of the Commission.
Heads of Government reaffirmed their commitment to the implementation of all elements of the CSME regime.
FACILITATION OF TRAVEL WITHIN THE CARIBBEAN COMMUNITY
Heads of Government discussed the issue of facilitation of travel. They noted that the overwhelming majority of travelling citizens were moving throughout the Community without hindrance.
They however urged Member States to comply with the relevant decisions taken by the Community and the rulings of the Caribbean Court of Justice and take all appropriate measures to give full effect to the free movement regimes. They reaffirmed the principle that persons were to be treated with dignity at ports of entry.
Heads of Government mandated the CARICOM Secretariat to convene a meeting of Chief Immigration Officers, CARICOM Ambassadors, and other relevant officials by 30 September 2016, in order to address the challenges being experienced by Community nationals travelling throughout the Region.
Heads of Government reminded Member States to submit statistics annually to the Secretariat on the refusals of entry and the operation of the free movement regimes and that these statistics must be submitted by 31 January of the following year.
CORRESPONDENT BANKING
Heads of Government reviewed the latest developments with respect to efforts to resolve the issue of de-risking severely affecting Member States. They emphasised that correspondent banking was an important global public good and the current de-risking strategy was discriminatory and counterintuitive to good public policy. They re-iterated that CARICOM’s trade, economic welfare and the transfer of remittances were gravely affected by the de-risking strategies of foreign banks.
In expressing concern that there was little progress on resolving the issue, Heads of Government agreed that CARICOM would continue its robust and unrelenting advocacy on the issue and that the Committee of Ministers of Finance on Correspondent Banking should maintain the current high level engagement.
Heads of Government also agreed to host a Global Stakeholder Conference on the Impact of the Withdrawal of Correspondent Banking on the Region which would include banks and regulators from the region, the United States of America, Canada and Europe, international development partners and representatives from civil society.
INFORMATION AND COMMUNICATION TECHNOLOGY FOR DEVELOPMENT (ICT4D)
Heads of Government received a presentation on the Draft Roadmap for the Single ICT space and agreed that their Ministers responsible for ICT would meet in September, 2016, in order to make appropriate recommendations to the Conference.
BORDER ISSUES:
Belize-Guatemala Relations
Heads of Government received an update on the most recent developments on the Belize – Guatemala border dispute and agreed to issue a statement which is attached to this Communiqué.
Guyana-Venezuela Relations
Heads of Government received an update on the most recent developments between Guyana and Venezuela on the border controversy and agreed to issue a statement which is attached to this Communiqué.
Heads of Government decided to reconstitute the Prime Ministerial Sub-Committee on Cricket with the Prime Minister of St Vincent and the Grenadines, as the Chairman. They agreed that the other members would be the Prime Minister of Barbados and the Prime Minister of Jamaica. Membership of the Sub-Committee will be open ended as is the case with all CARICOM Prime Ministerial Sub-Committees. The Committee will address all matters related to West Indies cricket including those that were being addressed by the Cricket Governance Committee.
Heads of Government expressed appreciation to the Prime Minister of Grenada, Dr the Honourable Keith Mitchell, for his untiring efforts in furtherance of the development of West Indies cricket.
ACTION PLAN FOR STATISTICS IN THE CARIBBEAN
Heads of Government endorsed the importance of statistics to the Region’s efforts to attain sustainable development, continuous improvement in the standard of living, empowerment of Community nationals, governance, planning and policy making and progress towards the CSME.
Heads of Government considered and endorsed the Action Plan which among other things seeks to strengthen national statistical systems. The Plan enables the upgrading of the Information and Communications Technology infrastructure and provides overall support to human resource development.
Heads of Government also agreed that the UN Secretary General should be advised that with regard to the statistical work carried out by the United Nations statistical system, the Community should be viewed as a distinct grouping within the Latin America and Caribbean area. They viewed this distinction as fundamental as it was based on the unique challenges that are faced particularly by Small Island Developing and low lying coastal States (SIDS) which constitute this grouping.
HEALTH AND DEVELOPMENT
Heads of Government addressed health related issues affecting the development of the Region, specifically Non Communicable Diseases (NCDs),” the regional response to HIV and AIDS, and the Every Caribbean Girl, Every Caribbean Woman Initiative (ECGECW)
As the Tenth Anniversary of the historic Port of Spain Declaration “Uniting to fight the Non-Communicable Diseases (NCDs) draws near, the Heads of Government recognised the progress made in addressing the issue. They acknowledged, however, that progress was variable and agreed to adopt a more holistic approach. In this regard, they pledged to address issues such as the banning of smoking in public places; trade related measures; banning advertisement of potentially harmful foods which specifically target children; and elevating taxes on foods high in sugar, salt and trans-fats.
Heads of Government endorsed the ECGECW initiative intended to address key sexual and reproductive health concerns of girls and women in the Caribbean. The objectives of ECGECW are to reduce teenage pregnancy, prevent cervical cancer, and eliminate Mother to Child Transmission of HIV.
Heads of Government noted the 2016 UN Political Declaration on Ending AIDS: On the Fast-Track to Accelerate the Fight against HIV and to End the AIDS Epidemic by 2030. Recognising the contraction of external funding to support the regional response to HIV and AIDS, Heads of Government committed to taking collective advocacy to fill remaining gaps in funding to support ending the AIDS epidemic in the Region.
RULES OF PROCEDURE FOR THE MEETINGS OF THE CONFERENCE
In their continuing efforts to reform the operations of the Community as agreed in the Strategic Plan, Heads of Government considered and adopted the Draft Rules of Procedure for Meetings of the Conference.
POLITICAL SITUATION IN SURINAME
Heads of Government were briefed about the recent political developments in Suriname by His Excellency, the President of Suriname Desiré Bouterse, in relation to a ruling by the Military Court of 9 June 2016, whereby the legislative powers in the Republic of Suriname were affected.
Heads of Government were informed about the decision of the Government of Suriname to apply Article 148 of the Constitution of Suriname, whereby the Public Prosecutor was ordered to cease the legal procedure in a particular case so as to allow the constitutionally legal mechanisms to fulfil their tasks in an orderly manner.
Heads of Government noted the information provided by the President of Suriname and expressed their view that the matter was an internal one.
CARICOM AND CUBA
Heads of Government recalled the Community’s longstanding relationship with Cuba and recognised the need to seize the trade, business and investment opportunities, including those in tourism, presented by the evolving situation in Cuba.
Heads of Government agreed that every effort will be made to conclude negotiations for a Second Protocol to the Trade and Economic Cooperation Agreement to allow for signature before the end of 2016.
Heads of Government expressed satisfaction with the ongoing normalisation of relations between Cuba and the United States and took note of the consequent changes in the geopolitical and geo-economic environment of the Region
Heads of Government reiterated their call for the lifting of the USA trade and economic embargo against Cuba.
RELATIONS WITH THE DOMINICAN REPUBLIC
Heads of Government reiterated their deep concern about the human rights situation of Dominicans of Haitian descent rendered stateless by the Constitutional Court ruling on nationality. They agreed to continue the Region’s advocacy in international fora and bilateral meetings to alleviate the plight of these persons some of whom have been deported to a country with which they have no links.
Heads of Government also expressed concern over the humanitarian situation of Haitian migrants deported from the Dominican Republic and other Haitian returnees.
Heads of Government further agreed to engage directly, as appropriate, with the Dominican Republic on the matter of statelessness and the required remedies.
EXCHANGE OF VIEWS WITH SPECIAL GUEST
Heads of Government welcomed the visit of Her Excellency President Michelle Bachelet of Chile. They noted the visit symbolised the renewal of longstanding political and cooperation relations with a country which has been long supportive of the Community through its institution and capacity building projects in a wide diversity of areas.
The two parties observed that they share common interests and concerns. These include the importance of economic growth as a means to equitable and sustainable development, poverty eradication, the adverse impact of climate change, and the need for resources to address the resulting burdens, vulnerability to disasters, and protection of the seas.
Heads of Government were of the view that strengthening the relationship between CARICOM and Chile was of mutual interest. To this end, it was proposed to bolster the framework for political dialogue and to pursue further projects of South-South cooperation as well as trade and investment links.
Heads of Government agreed to heighten political engagement and expand technical co-operation to include Climate Change, the Sustainable Development Goals and trade co-operation.
BREXIT
Heads of Government viewed Britain’s exit (Brexit) from the European Union (EU) as a watershed event in in current world affairs whose geopolitical and geo-economic repercussions would be far-reaching and long-lasting.
They received a detailed brief on the political, diplomatic, trade, economic and financial implications of Brexit for the Region as well as recommendations for addressing them.
Heads of Government agreed that CARICOM should continue to monitor developments as the exit process unfolded and underlined the importance of a common and structured approach that married the technical, political and diplomatic.
Heads of Government emphasised that the United Kingdom and the European Union remain strong and valued partners of the Community.
DATE OF THE TWENTY-EIGHTH INTER-SESSIONAL MEETING OF THE CONFERENCE (February 2017, Guyana)
The Twenty-Eighth Intersessional Meeting of the Conference of Heads of Government of the Caribbean Community will be held on a date to be announced in February 2017 in Guyana.
ATTACHMENT I
BELIZE-GUATEMALA RELATIONS
Heads of Government received an update on the most recent developments between Belize and Guatemala.
Heads of Government expressed their full support for the Government of Belize as it enters the process of dialogue and welcomed the decisions of the Government of Belize and Guatemala to engage in the design and development of a mechanism of cooperation for the Sarstoon River, which marks Belize’s southern boundary. They urged them to complete this at the earliest opportunity.
Heads of Government expressed support the continuous and critical role of the Organisation of American States (OAS) in the process aimed at resolving the dispute arising from Guatemala’s claims and further calls on the international community to continue supporting the OAS office in the Adjacency Zone. The Conference of Heads of Government also supports the efforts of Belize and Guatemala to move deliberately to fully implement the special agreement of 2008 between Belize and Guatemala to submit Guatemala’s territorial, insular and maritime claims to the International Court of Justice.
The Heads of Government emphasised their unflinching support for the sovereignty, territorial integrity and security of Belize.
ATTACHMENT II
GUYANA-VENEZUELA RELATIONS
Heads of Government received a report on recent development in the relations between Guyana and Venezuela. They also received a report on the current efforts of the SG of the United Nations proposing a way forward to the two countries towards a decisive end to the controversy.
Heads of Government noted with appreciation that the SG of the United Nations attaches the highest priority to finding a solution to the controversy which arose out of Venezuela’s contention that the Arbitral award of 1899 which definitively settled the land boundary between Guyana and Venezuela is null and void.
In that regard they signalled their full confidence in the Secretary-General to exercise urgently his authority under the 1966 Geneva Agreement for a choice of options that would bring the controversy to a definitive and judicial conclusion that would be beneficial not only to Guyana but the Caribbean Community as a whole.
Heads of Government reiterated their full support for the sovereignty and territorial integrity of all CARICOM States and their entitlement to rights regarding maritime zones under international law.
]]>The sensitization workshop will highlight the provisions of the following CSME regimes: free movement of skills/labour and the facilitation of travel generally; the right of establishment; and the free movement of services. Participants will be apprised of the operations and benefits of these processes and how they can make full use of the cross-border economic opportunities. This awareness drive across the 12 Member States will run from January to May 2016. Resource persons from the CARICOM Secretariat will conduct the sessions.
This series of workshops is the first time that the Secretariat is bringing together members of the private sector, employers’ bodies and trade unions for such an activity.
]]>