CARICOM DAY MESSAGE 2023 FROM THE OPPOSITION

The Office of the Leader of the Opposition extends warm greetings to CARICOM on the momentous occasion of its 50th Anniversary. As we commemorate this milestone, the visionary words of The Hon. Forbes Burnham, then Prime Minister of Guyana, on 14 August 1967, still ring true today; he reminded us that “Either we weld ourselves into a regional grouping, serving primarily Caribbean needs, or lacking a common positive policy, have our various territories and nations drawn hither and thither into, and by, other large groupings, where the peculiar problems of the Caribbean are lost or where we become the objects of neo-colonist exploitation and achieve the pitiable status of international mendicants… This is the naked truth. Either we integrate or we perish, unwept, unhonoured.”

Since its establishment on July 4th, 1973, CARICOM has been a steadfast advocate for Caribbean integration, promoting principles of solidarity, cooperation, and mutual assistance.

This anniversary is not only a time for celebration of significant achievements but also an opportunity to recommit ourselves to regional integration and the strengthening of partnerships, especially as we confront unprecedented existential threats.

We must forge ahead together, building a Community where each citizen, from every Member State, is valued, and their aspirations are realized. The challenges we face, such as climate change, economic disparities, and global health crises, necessitate a united front and collective action. CARICOM’s strength lies in its ability to foster collaboration, promote economic growth, protect our shared natural resources, and ensure the well-being of our people.

As we mark this historic milestone, let us seize the opportunity to deepen our bonds, enhance our partnerships, and reaffirm our collective determination to address pressing issues. Together, we can create a Caribbean Community that thrives on the world stage, leaving no citizen behind.

May this golden jubilee serve as a catalyst for renewed unity, resilience, and progress within CARICOM! Let us honor the visionaries who laid the foundation for our regional integration and chart a course toward a prosperous, sustainable, and inclusive future for all Caribbean nations. The Office of the Leader of the Opposition extends congratulations and best wishes to CARICOM, its Member States, and the Caribbean people on this significant occasion. Happy 50th Anniversary, CARICOM!

Amanza Walton-Desir

Shadow Minister of Foreign Affairs

Parliamentary Opposition