President Dr. Irfaan Ali has emphasized the pressing need to enhance intra-regional trade as a key to achieving economic stability and growth within the Caribbean Community (CARICOM). In a message celebrating CARICOM Day, he urged member states to leverage their collective strengths, asserting that stronger economic ties will help the region navigate external challenges.
President Ali passionately called for an intensification of intra-regional trade efforts, advances towards long-term food security, and the establishment of resilient energy systems alongside sustainable environmental practices. He highlighted the critical importance of working together to address common vulnerabilities and to realize the full potential of the Single Market and Economy. Enhanced regional trade is pivotal for economic resilience and essential for food and energy security, he said.
He noted Guyana’s readiness to play a significant role in bolstering regional food security and supporting energy projects. “Regional integration is not just a vision; it is an urgent necessity that demands immediate attention,” he asserted, reaffirming his government’s commitment to this vital cause.
In addition to trade, President Ali called for enhanced cooperation in areas including climate change adaptation and regional security, advocating for a unified stance in global matters as the region faces challenges such as climate impacts, transnational crime, and economic disruptions. He is currently in Kingston for high-level discussions addressing various crucial topics like trade and energy collaboration at the 49th CARICOM Heads of Government Conference.
Furthermore, Barbados Prime Minister Mia Mottley announced progress on acquiring cargo planes to improve goods transportation within the region and highlighted the upcoming regional ferry system as a further step to improve connectivity and bolster trade.
Source: guyanachronicle.com
