BASSETERRE, St Kitts – Concluding their four-day annual gathering, leaders of the Caribbean Community (CARICOM) have unanimously agreed to dispatch humanitarian assistance to Cuba while establishing a specialized committee to redefine diplomatic relations with the United States.
The summit, chaired by St Kitts and Nevis Prime Minister Dr. Terrance Drew, addressed multiple regional challenges including Cuba’s escalating humanitarian crisis. While specific details of the aid package remain undetermined, Dr. Drew confirmed the collective commitment to support the Cuban people while maintaining regional stability. The Caribbean leaders acknowledged their unique position as historical partners to both Cuba and the United States.
In a significant diplomatic move, CARICOM will form a three-member committee to develop a new Cooperation Framework with the United States. This initiative follows discussions with US Secretary of State Marco Rubio, who emphasized the Biden administration’s objective to strengthen traditional relationships within the Western Hemisphere.
The Haiti crisis received substantial attention with the endorsement of Kenya’s leadership role in the UN-authorized Gang Suppression Force (GSF). The Eminent Persons Group, chaired by former St Lucian Prime Minister Dr. Kenny Anthony, presented comprehensive assessments of Haiti’s security and humanitarian situation.
Additional summit outcomes included:
– Advancements in the CARICOM Single Market and Economy (CSME) with expanded free movement provisions for aviation personnel
– Establishment of a prime ministerial committee to review governance and financing structures within CARICOM
– Reinforcement of support for Belize’s territorial integrity in ongoing border disputes with Guatemala and Honduras
– Strong endorsement of the judicial process regarding the Guyana-Venezuela border controversy at the International Court of Justice
– Mandate for the Reparations Committee to refine the CARICOM Ten-Point Plan for upcoming Commonwealth meetings
Dr. Drew characterized the summit as ‘a conference of action’ that produced tangible outcomes addressing the most critical issues affecting the Caribbean community.