Saint Lucia’s Prime Minister Participates in the Forty-Eighth CARICOM Heads of Government Meeting in Barbados

The 48th Regular Meeting of the Conference of Heads of Government of the Caribbean Community (CARICOM), slated for February 19-21, 2025, in Barbados, will serve as a crucial platform for regional leaders to address a diverse array of pressing issues facing the Caribbean. Under the theme “Strength in Unity: Forging Caribbean Resilience, Inclusive Growth, and Sustainable Development,” the meeting will delve into critical areas such as food and nutrition security, climate change and its associated financial implications, the ongoing political and humanitarian crisis in Haiti, regional security concerns, bolstering digital resilience, external relations, and the advancement of the CARICOM Single Market and Economy (CSME). This comprehensive agenda underscores the commitment of CARICOM member states to collaborative problem-solving and the pursuit of collective progress. The gathering will also provide an opportunity to discuss key logistical matters, including maritime and air transport, and address the historically significant issue of reparations for the injustices of slavery and colonialism.

Saint Lucia’s Prime Minister, Hon. Philip J. Pierre, will be a key participant in the conference, further highlighting his nation’s commitment to regional cooperation and addressing the shared challenges that impact the Caribbean. As CARICOM’s Lead Head for Sustainable Development and Climate Change, Prime Minister Pierre is scheduled to deliver a significant intervention on February 20th, 2025, during the open plenary session. His address will focus on the critical issue of climate change, particularly its financial implications for the region. This intervention underscores the importance of climate action within the Caribbean, a region particularly vulnerable to the impacts of a changing climate, including rising sea levels, extreme weather events, and threats to biodiversity. The Prime Minister’s active participation reflects Saint Lucia’s dedication to regional collaboration and its commitment to tackling the multifaceted challenges that confront the Caribbean community.

The urgency of addressing food and nutrition security will be a prominent topic of discussion. The Caribbean region faces challenges in ensuring accessible, affordable, and nutritious food for its population, a situation exacerbated by external factors like global supply chain disruptions and the impacts of climate change on agricultural production. Leaders will explore collaborative strategies to enhance regional food security, promote sustainable agriculture, and address the nutritional needs of their citizens. Similarly, the ongoing situation in Haiti, marked by political instability, social unrest, and humanitarian crises, will require thoughtful deliberation. CARICOM leaders will seek to find effective ways to support Haiti in its path towards stability and recovery, recognizing the interconnectedness of regional security and the need for collaborative solutions.

The conference will also provide a platform to discuss the vital issue of regional security. With increasing concerns about transnational crime, drug trafficking, and other security threats, CARICOM leaders will explore strategies to strengthen cooperation and information sharing among member states, aiming to create a more secure and stable environment for all citizens. Furthermore, the meeting will delve into the critical area of digital resilience, recognizing the growing importance of technology and the need to protect critical infrastructure from cyber threats. Leaders will discuss ways to enhance cybersecurity capabilities and promote digital literacy within the region.

External relations also form a key component of the conference agenda. CARICOM leaders will engage in discussions about strengthening ties with international partners and advocating for the interests of the Caribbean community on the global stage. This includes addressing issues such as trade, development assistance, and climate finance. Finally, the advancement of the CARICOM Single Market and Economy (CSME) will be a central focus. The CSME aims to create a single economic space within the Caribbean, promoting free movement of goods, services, capital, and people. Leaders will assess the progress made towards achieving the goals of the CSME and identify strategies to overcome remaining challenges.

During Prime Minister Pierre’s absence from Saint Lucia to attend the CARICOM meeting, the Deputy Prime Minister, Hon. Dr. Ernest Hilaire, will assume the responsibilities of Acting Prime Minister. This ensures continuity of governance within Saint Lucia while the Prime Minister engages in critical regional discussions. The 48th Regular Meeting of the Conference of Heads of Government of CARICOM promises to be a significant event, shaping the future direction of the Caribbean community and demonstrating the power of regional collaboration in addressing shared challenges and pursuing a path towards sustainable development, resilience, and inclusive growth.