The Caribbean Community (CARICOM) has deepened its relations with Sweden, Norway and Austria following the accreditation of new ambassadors from the three European countries this week.
Secretary-General Dr Carla Barnett accepted the Letters of Credence of Her Excellency Maria Velasco, the new Ambassador of Sweden to CARICOM, on Tuesday, February 3. She accredited His Excellency John Petter Opdahl of the Kingdom of Norway and His Excellency Gerold Vollmer of Austria on Wednesday, February 4.
In her remarks, Dr Barnett highlighted the long-standing relationship between CARICOM and Sweden, citing cooperation at bilateral, regional and multilateral levels. She noted continued engagement between foreign ministers and collaboration on ocean governance, water management and climate resilience, describing Sweden as a consistent partner in global climate efforts. She also acknowledged Sweden’s technical support for resilient energy systems across the region.
Turning to Norway, the Secretary-General underscored the shared identity of CARICOM and Norway as maritime nations and their mutual commitment to multilateralism. She recalled Norway’s early support in 2001 and 2003 that helped establish the CARICOM Secretariat’s Office in Haiti, which facilitated Haiti’s integration into the Community. Dr Barnett also welcomed Norway’s support for the Gang Suppression Force under United Nations Security Council Resolution 2793.
Addressing the Austrian Ambassador, Dr Barnett said CARICOM and Austria share a commitment to multilateralism and the rule of law. She acknowledged Austria’s seed capital for the Caribbean Centre for Renewable Energy and Energy Efficiency (CCREEE) and its capacity-building support for young diplomats from the region.
Dr Barnett urged all three ambassadors to keep Haiti on their agendas as the country continues its delicate transition toward general elections.
Ambassador Velasco said CARICOM and the European Union together represent 41 states that share similar positions on many global issues and can use their combined influence to defend foundational principles and address shared challenges, including climate change and organised crime.
Ambassador Opdahl pointed to shared challenges facing small-island and coastal states and reaffirmed Norway’s commitment to long-term collaboration, particularly through its partnership with the Caribbean Disaster Emergency Management Agency (CDEMA).
Ambassador Vollmer outlined three areas of ongoing cooperation: Austria’s support for CCREEE, training programmes for CARICOM diplomats in Vienna, and Austria’s offer to support the establishment of a CARICOM office in Vienna to enhance representation at United Nations agencies.
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