Prime Minister of St. Vincent and the Grenadines Dr. Godwin Friday called for renewed urgency in advancing Caribbean integration as he delivered his first address to the Conference of CARICOM Heads of Government at the Opening Ceremony of its 50th Regular Meeting on Tuesday, February 24.
Greeting delegates at the milestone gathering, Friday reflected on his recent election victory and leadership transition in St. Vincent and the Grenadines, which brought the New Democratic Party to office after nearly a quarter century.
“As you know, we recently (on November 27th 2025) had general elections in St. Vincent and the Grenadines and a new government, of the New Democratic Party was elected, the first change of government in almost 25 years! The people gave us a clear mandate to govern, and so here I am.”
Acknowledging his status as a newcomer to the regional forum, Friday said his fresh perspective could help stimulate progress on long-standing issues confronting the Community.
He noted that conversations about regional integration often begin with frustration over slow progress and difficulty achieving unity, particularly in international affairs.
“It seems to me that any serious consideration of the subject of regional integration and CARICOM’s place in it begins with a familiar lament about the agonizingly slow pace of forward movement and the illusiveness of unity and collective action, especially in international affairs.”
Despite historical disagreements and moments of tension, Friday said the integration movement has endured from early regional efforts through the establishment of CARICOM, underscoring its fundamental importance to member states.
“And those who ask why, the answer is simple: because we need it! And we all know this.”
The Vincentian leader warned that the region is now facing a more uncertain global environment, marked by shifting international norms and growing geopolitical and economic pressures.
“Thankfully, CARICOM remains. But, now more than ever, we are being tested. We are challenged from inside and out, the world around us grows more perilous daily.”
He stressed that deeper cooperation is essential for small states seeking to protect their interests and improve living standards, arguing that collective action remains the region’s most viable path forward.
“In the current global realities, we need each other more than ever. If we do not continue to strive together, and pool our limited power and resources, we cannot hope to withstand the increasing political and economic headwinds and deliver better living standards for our people.”
Friday also urged leaders to highlight CARICOM’s achievements and strengthen public engagement, noting that broader awareness among citizens would enhance the organisation’s credibility and relevance.
Outlining priorities for regional collaboration, he pointed to poverty reduction, economic growth, removal of trade and currency barriers, workforce development, climate resilience financing and support for peace and security efforts in Haiti.
Concluding his remarks, the Prime Minister thanked fellow leaders for their welcome and encouraged them to accelerate progress on integration while remaining committed to the shared journey.
“But, please let us quicken the pace. The road ahead may be arduous and full of obstacles, but it is a viable path, made even more certain when we decide to walk together.”
He expressed optimism for productive deliberations as regional leaders convene for the landmark conference.
