Resolutions on Haiti, Agri-food Systems, and Security as PM Davis Closed 44th Regular Meeting of CARICOM

NASSAU, The Bahamas – On Friday, February 17th, 2023, Prime Minister Davis officially closed the 44th Regular Meeting of the Conference of the Heads of Government of the Caribbean Community (CARICOM) at Baha Mar. Over the course of the three-day conference, leaders from the region solidified resolutions on a number of pressing issues affecting The Bahamas and broader Caribbean, chief among them the crisis in Haiti, sustainable agri-food systems, and security issues.

Heads of Gov. discussed the Bridgetown Initiative for the Reform of Global Financial Architecture, which seeks to improve the functioning of the global financial system, particularly as it relates to Caribbean states securing better terms and conditions for accessing finance. On the issue of health, regional leaders resolved to support the rollout of a vaccine campaign by the Caribbean Public Health Agency.

In view of the crisis in Haiti, regional leaders developed an effective agenda to advance peace and prosperity in the neighbouring state. Prime Minister Davis specifically cited CARICOM’s intention to strengthen the Haitian National Police and a series of upcoming meetings with Haitian stakeholders as the next steps slated for addressing the situation. These measures demonstrate the regional bloc’s commitment to playing a leadership role in resolving the crisis while also engaging international partners like the PM of Canada, Rt. Hon. Justin Trudeau, who reaffirmed Canada’s support to curb the ongoing stability in Haiti.

Heads of Gov. also discussed opportunities to spur regional agricultural growth, namely the removal of all non-tariff barriers (NTBs) to regional trade in agricultural produce; de-risking of the sector; digitization; research and development; and review of the Common External Tariff. Leaders also received a project, “Building Food Security through Innovation, Resilience, Sustainability and Empowerment”, from the President of Guyana, and accepted that government’s pledge of US$2M towards financing and implementing this project.

Regarding matters of security, regional leaders expressed concern at the levels of violence being experienced in Member States, resolving that a holistic approach to crime reduction must incorporate strategies for economic development and reform at the judicial, police, and educational levels. The meeting ultimately agreed to a Symposium addressing crime as a public health concern to be held in Trinidad and Tobago in April 2023.