Caricom Leaders to Convene Ahead of U.S. Secretary of State’s…

Caribbean Community leaders will meet on Friday before Secretary of State Marco Rubio’s arrival next Wednesday in Jamaica. Key agenda items include updates on Haiti’s crisis, the Guyana-Venezuela border dispute, and discussions on regional debt relief and U.S. relations. The meeting signifies the region’s commitment to addressing pressing challenges and strengthening partnerships with the U.S.

Caribbean Community (Caricom) leaders are set to convene on Friday, preceding the visit of United States Secretary of State Marco Rubio, scheduled for next Wednesday in Jamaica. This information was disclosed by well-informed sources to the Caribbean Media Corporation (CMC) on Thursday. Prime Minister of Trinidad and Tobago, Stuart Young, confirmed discussions with Barbados Prime Minister Mia Mottley regarding the upcoming meeting without providing further specifics on the topics to be addressed or Rubio’s visit.

An update on the ongoing crisis in Haiti is expected to be on the agenda as criminal gangs continue to undermine the government, complicating efforts to conduct elections later this year. Among other key discussions, the Caricom leaders are expected to evaluate the Guyana-Venezuela border dispute, especially after St Vincent and the Grenadines Prime Minister Dr. Ralph Gonsalves’ discussions with leaders from both nations to mitigate tensions over the disputed Essequibo region.

Gonsalves emphasized the dire consequences of escalating conflict, which could severely impact both nations and create wider destabilization across Latin America and the Caribbean. He urged both parties to engage in dialogue to resolve their differences, reiterating their earlier commitment to establish the region as a Zone of Peace.

Furthermore, the leaders will deliberate on a proposed regional debt swap and examine the implications of recent U.S. charges targeting Chinese-built vessels arriving at U.S. ports. Marco Rubio’s visit is anticipated to address various matters concerning CARICOM’s relationship with the United States, following a meeting between U.S. Special Envoy Mauricio Claver-Carone and representatives from several Caribbean nations.

Sources indicated that Rubio’s agenda would include discussions on the Cuban health brigade system, energy advancements, economic developments, and the security situation in Haiti. However, it is noted that not all regional leaders are expected to be present at the forthcoming talks in Kingston.

In conclusion, the upcoming meeting of Caricom leaders aims to tackle critical issues such as Haiti’s security, the Guyana-Venezuela situation, and the concept of regional debt relief. The discussions will set the stage for Secretary of State Marco Rubio’s visit, highlighting the United States’ interest in fostering strong relations with CARICOM. This gathering reflects the urgency of addressing regional challenges and promoting stability throughout the Caribbean.

Original Source: www.jamaicaobserver.com