Trade barriers, transportation, elections among key topics at CARICOM heads meeting

President Dr Irfaan Ali has outlined Guyana’s agenda for the 48th Regular Meeting of CARICOM Heads of Government, which opens today in Barbados.

The President, who is already in Barbados, highlighted several key issues that Guyana will be pursuing.

The meeting is taking place at a critical time globally, amid major shifts in policy agendas and evolving geopolitical realities in various regions of the world.

“All of which CARICOM has to be very mindful of, and I believe that this is an important area for discussion among heads at this CARICOM Heads of Government meeting. Of course, this meeting is also looking at the historical issues of free movement of people and trade barriers,” President Ali stated.

He noted that the government has expressed strong concerns about the slow pace of trade barrier removal and will be actively pursuing this issue, particularly as the private sector has also raised concerns.

He added that the free movement of people is a substantial matter that will receive significant attention and clarification.

The regional transportation system and the expansion of Guyana’s productive capacity are also key topics on the agenda.

“The regional transportation system and the expansion of our productive capacity are important subjects—this includes the ferry system within the region. The regional private sector organisation has now developed a formal presentation and has made significant progress on this matter,” the President stated.

Elections taking place in the region this year, along with CARICOM’s role in safeguarding democracy, will also be discussed.

Additionally, President Ali noted that discussions will focus on how the region will continue supporting Haiti in its transition towards elections, as well as efforts to build international coalitions and partnerships.

Food security is another key focus for Guyana, which has made tremendous strides despite setbacks caused by natural disasters.

“As we speak about energy security within the region and energy integration, Guyana has been working with many countries in the region, and with CARICOM itself, to develop an integrated energy plan—where we see ourselves as a critical player in that plan and in operationalising such a facility,” the President stated.

He stressed that this meeting presents an opportunity not only to address important regional issues but also to advance a strong regional agenda.

Guyana will also present its proposals on education, including the Guyana Digital School initiative and the development of an artificial intelligence (AI) strategy plan.