Leaders and ministers of the Caribbean Community (CARICOM) gathered for the Twenty-Fourth Special Meeting of the Council for Foreign and Community Relations (COFCOR), held on the margins of the 80th Session of the United Nations General Assembly.
In his opening remarks, Right Honourable Dr. Denzil Douglas, Minister of Foreign Affairs of St. Kitts and Nevis and Chair of COFCOR, extended congratulations to newly appointed ministers, including Melvin Bouva of Suriname and Sean Sobers of Trinidad and Tobago, as well as reappointed ministers such as Hugh Todd of Guyana and Kamina Johnson Smith of Jamaica. He also thanked the Government of Jamaica for hosting the meeting for the second consecutive time.
Dr. Douglas highlighted the agenda’s focus on pressing regional and international concerns, including the impacts of climate change, evolving geopolitical and security challenges, and the need for reforms in key international organizations such as the United Nations. He noted that the ongoing crisis in Haiti remains a priority, with discussions set to address efforts to restore security, stability, and recovery in collaboration with the OAS and the UN Security Council.
The meeting also provided an opportunity for engagement with the Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights regarding the newly established Regional Office of Human Rights for the Caribbean, and with Austria, a longstanding CARICOM partner.
“Strategic foreign policy coordination remains critical as we prepare for upcoming Summits and High-Level Meetings that are of priority interest to our Region,” Dr. Douglas said. He urged CARICOM members to enhance collaboration, strengthen diplomatic relations, and ensure the Community’s voice remains impactful on the global stage.
The meeting aims to advance CARICOM’s shared interests, deepen partnerships, and coordinate advocacy on international platforms.
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