Statement by Minister of Foreign Affairs, the Honourable Karen Cummings on the Occasion of the Twentieth Special Meeting of the Conference of Heads of Government of the Caribbean Community (CARICOM)

July 3, 2020

Thank you, Mr. Chair.

I wish to place on record, on behalf of His Excellency David Granger, President of Guyana, sincere appreciation to the Honourable Mia Amor Mottley, Prime Minister of Barbados, for her earnest and energetic efforts to enhance regional integration during her tenure as Chairman of the Conference of Heads of Government of the Caribbean Community [CARICOM].

Your exemplary leadership over the last six months, especially with regard to the CARICOM Single Market and Economy (CSME), the vulnerability of Small Islands Developing States (SIDS) and the region’s response to the COVID-19 pandemic, among others, has reignited enthusiasm for the expeditious implementation of deeper and stronger economic integration measures.

We are confident that you will continue to raise your voice as an advocate of the Community’s economic development even as you now pass the baton to a new Chairman.

We join other delegations in welcoming the new Chairman of Conference, Dr. the Honourable Ralph Gonsalves, Prime Minister of St. Vincent and the Grenadines. We assure him of the support of the Co-operative Republic of Guyana during his tenure of office.

Thank you, Mr. Chair.