CARICOM leaders will meet virtually on Friday before U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio visits Jamaica. They will discuss the political crisis in Haiti, the Guyana-Venezuela border tensions, a potential regional debt swap, and impacts of U.S. policies regarding Cuba. The meeting is crucial for reinforcing CARICOM’s regional unity and addressing critical issues with U.S. relations.
Leaders of the Caribbean Community (CARICOM) are set to convene virtually on Friday prior to the arrival of United States Secretary of State, Marco Rubio, in Jamaica on Wednesday. Prime Minister Stuart Young of Trinidad and Tobago has confirmed his discussion with CARICOM Chair Mia Mottley, emphasizing Trinidad and Tobago’s commitment to supporting regional initiatives, although he did not disclose specifics about the meeting or Rubio’s visit.
During the upcoming meeting, CARICOM leaders are expected to address several key issues including the political crisis in Haiti, where criminal gangs pose significant threats amid plans for elections later this year. Additionally, they will review the escalating tensions related to the Guyana-Venezuela border dispute, as noted by Dr. Ralph Gonsalves of St Vincent and the Grenadines, who recently met with both nations’ presidents to advocate for peace to avert potential conflict.
Discussions will also include the concept of a regional debt swap and the repercussions of U.S. sanctions on Chinese-built ships, aimed at furthering cooperation between CARICOM nations. Rubio’s visit, anticipated to occur before the end of March, aligns with ongoing talks regarding various pressing issues in CARICOM relations with the United States.
The agenda for Rubio’s discussions in Jamaica is expected to encompass a range of topics, including the recent U.S. policy shift regarding the Cuban health brigade, energy and economic development, and the situation in Haiti. Not all regional leaders are anticipated to be present for these talks. CARICOM representatives continue to support the Cuban health program due to its significant contributions to regional healthcare, spanning notable responses from CARICOM leaders who have expressed readiness to forgo U.S. visas in favor of Cuba’s health brigade benefits.
In conclusion, the CARICOM meeting scheduled for Friday aims to address pressing political and economic issues facing the region, particularly regarding Haiti and the Guyana-Venezuela border. With Secretary of State Marco Rubio’s visit next week, the discussions will also cover U.S.-CARICOM relations, including the repercussions of recent U.S. policies concerning Cuba. The commitment shown by CARICOM leaders to these discussions underscores the importance of multilateral cooperation in addressing regional challenges.
Original Source: barbadostoday.bb
