标签： Barbados

Barbados’ Ambassador to CARICOM, David Comissiong, has issued a strong appeal to the United States government to dismantle its 63-year-old economic blockade against Cuba and revoke its designation of Cuba as a state sponsor of terrorism. Speaking at a ceremony marking the 49th anniversary of the Cubana Airliner tragedy and the third year of CARICOM-Cuba Day Against Terrorism, Ambassador Comissiong labeled the US actions as both fraudulent and unjust. He emphasized the need for the US to align with international consensus, citing the annual United Nations resolution that overwhelmingly condemns the blockade as illegal. Comissiong argued that the terrorism designation exacerbates Cuba’s economic challenges, hindering trade, financial operations, and access to essential goods. He also highlighted Cuba’s history as a victim of terrorism, with 713 documented acts largely orchestrated from US soil. Furthermore, Comissiong referenced the 2014 Zone of Peace Declaration, adopted by the Community of Latin American and Caribbean States (CELAC), which underscores principles of non-intervention, sovereignty, and peaceful coexistence. He criticized recent US military actions in the Caribbean, particularly against Venezuela, as a violation of these principles. The ambassador’s call reflects broader regional concerns over US policies in the Caribbean and their impact on regional stability.

The ongoing discourse surrounding free movement within the Caribbean has brought Barbados and three other nations to the forefront of efforts to fully implement this concept. However, the pace of progress raises questions about whether the reality aligns with the promise.

Retired Lieutenant Colonel Jeffrey Davidson Bostic has been unanimously elected as the next President of Barbados, marking a significant moment in the nation’s political landscape. The confirmation of his election took place during a joint session of the House of Assembly and the Senate, where no objections were raised against his sole nomination. This nomination was jointly endorsed by Prime Minister Mia Amor Mottley and Opposition Leader Ralph Thorne, showcasing a rare display of bipartisan unity. Speaker of the House Arthur Holder declared that, in the absence of any objections, a formal vote was unnecessary, and the nomination was officially approved. In their remarks, both Prime Minister Mottley and Opposition Leader Thorne praised Bostic’s qualifications and character. Thorne highlighted Bostic’s steady and respected presence in Barbadian society, while Mottley emphasized that he embodies all the essential qualities needed for the presidency at this pivotal time. Bostic’s election reflects a collective confidence in his ability to lead and represent Barbados with dignity and integrity.

In a passionate address during a ceremony marking the 49th anniversary of the Cubana Airliner tragedy and the third year of CARICOM-Cuba Day Against Terrorism, Barbados’ Ambassador to CARICOM, David Comissiong, called on the United States to dismantle its 63-year-old economic blockade against Cuba. He also denounced the US designation of Cuba as a state sponsor of terrorism as “fraudulent and ridiculous.” Speaking on behalf of the Barbados government and the broader Caribbean Community, Comissiong urged the US to terminate the blockade and remove Cuba from its terrorism list, emphasizing that the blockade has been repeatedly condemned by the United Nations. He highlighted the severe impact of the blockade on Cuba’s ability to engage in international trade, conduct financial operations, and secure essential goods for its citizens. Comissiong further argued that Cuba has been a victim of terrorism, citing 713 acts of terrorism, many of which were orchestrated from US soil. He also referenced the 2014 Zone of Peace Declaration, adopted by the Community of Latin American and Caribbean States (CELAC), which emphasizes non-intervention, sovereignty, and peaceful coexistence. Comissiong criticized recent US military actions in the Caribbean, particularly against Venezuela, as a violation of the Zone of Peace principles. He called on CARICOM governments to uphold these principles in the face of such interventions.