Declaring CARICOM as the longest thriving integration movement in the developing world, new Chairman of CARICOM, Prime Minister of Grenada, Dickon Mitchell, told other Heads of Government that the movement is still relevant today, as it was when it was founded.
Speaking during the opening of the 47th Regular Meeting of CARICOM on Sunday in Grenada, Prime Minister Mitchell said, CARICOM continues to prove its worth in the time of need to sister states, and therefore it is time to advance the work programme of the region.
“But I know, it is CARICOM that prevented the region turning into a war zone like so many other regions currently are right now. I know that is CARICOM that has responded swiftest and int he most extensive manner to our plight here in Grenada, Carriacou and Petite Martinique from the ravages of hurricane Beryl and I know it will be CARICOM that will take the fight for reparatory justice throughout the length and breath of the world,” Mitchell said.
He noted that CARICOM is leading the fight for Small Island Developing states in the region and worldwide. But often times, Mr. Mitchell noted, because of the slow pace of implementation, the effectiveness of CARICOM and some leaders are called into question.
He noted that institutions within the region such as the Regional Security System (RSS), the Caribbean Court of Justice and the Caricom Single Market and Economy (CSME), have been playing critical roles within the region.
Mr. Mitchell promised that as CARICOM Chair, he will also push for the advancement of the CSME. CARICOM Heads have long taken measures to establish a CARICOM Single Market and Economy (CSME). Once implemented, the CSME will facilitate economic integration and the movement of goods, services and capital throughout the Caribbean Community without tariffs or other restrictions.
But Prime Minister Mitchell said there are still fears about the full implementation in some countries, and he urged leaders to educate their population.
“So, we have to educate our population and unshackle them from the idea that the free movement of our citizens within CARICOM will do anything other than, enhance the growth, strength and solidarity within the Caribbean community,” the Prime Minister noted.
Mitchell said the resilience of CARICOM should not be taken for granted. According to the Prime Minister, it is this resilience that has seen countries outside of the region, inquiring about being associated with the 15-member bloc.
Meanwhile, Secretary General of the CARICOM, Dr. Carla Barnett said CARICOM can be a force for good for every person living in the region.
“Our dynamic interplay in economic coordination, functional cooperation, foreign policy coordination, security cooperation, security, education, Agriculture and health is one of the hallmarks of our success,” Dr. Barnett stated.
Dr. Barnett thanked outgoing CARICOM Chair, President Irfaan Ali, for providing leadership on food security and the situation in Haiti during his tenure.
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