Montego Bay, Jamaica, W. I. — As Chair of the 49th Regular Meeting of the Conference of Heads of Government of the Caribbean Community (CARICOM), the Most Honourable Andrew Holness, ON, PC, MP, Prime Minister of Jamaica, delivered a compelling address articulating a clear vision for a secure and sustainable future for the Caribbean. Centered on the strategic pillars of People, Partnership, and Prosperity, the Prime Minister’s message urged regional unity and bold leadership amid growing global instability.
In his address, Prime Minister Holness underscored that regional development must be grounded in human dignity and inclusivity. “Our people are our greatest resource. Their security, prosperity, and participation must remain at the heart of every policy we pursue,” he affirmed. He further emphasized the necessity of placing youth engagement, food and climate security, and job creation at the forefront of CARICOM’s development priorities.
Recognizing the complex challenges faced by small island developing states—including climate change, transnational crime, and external economic shocks—Prime Minister Holness called for a renewal of strategic regional and international partnerships. “In this dynamic and often unpredictable global environment, we must act with foresight. It is only through deliberate collaboration, deepened regional integration, and an unwavering commitment to our shared values that we will secure a future of lasting peace and prosperity for our citizens,” he stated.
He reiterated the importance of advancing the CARICOM Single Market and Economy (CSME), urging his colleagues to accelerate implementation of key integration measures such as the free movement of skilled nationals, digital harmonisation, and regional trade facilitation. “The future of CARICOM lies in deepened cooperation. Let us complete the work of integration and stand as one, not merely as an economic bloc, but as a community of shared destiny.”
Special focus was placed on the importance of empowering youth and calling for more meaningful inclusion of young voices in decision-making. “We must no longer relegate our young people to the periphery of governance. Their ideas, their energy, and their innovation must form the cornerstone of our regional transformation,” he declared.
Turning to the ongoing humanitarian and political crisis in Haiti, Prime Minister Holness reaffirmed CARICOM’s responsibility to support peace, security, and reconstruction efforts, with the full backing of regional and international partners. “The people of Haiti must not walk this path alone. Our Region’s history and conscience compel us to walk with them toward restoration and hope.”
At today’s 5:00 p.m. press conference, Prime Minister Holness is expected to announce critical follow-up initiatives, including a regional climate finance mechanism in preparation for COP30, a youth inclusion and innovation framework, concrete actions for Haiti stabilization, and an expanded regional security architecture.
The Prime Minister declared in his closing appeal: “Let us move from aspiration to action. The future demands that we work as one Caribbean, united in purpose, unwavering in partnership, and committed to prosperity for all. There can be no sustained prosperity without security, and no security without the full engagement of our people. This is our moment to lead, and to lead together.” This message marks a decisive moment for CARICOM, setting the stage for transformative policy action anchored in the shared vision of a stronger, safer, and more resilient Caribbean.
MEDIA CONTACT:
Sharon Oshun Parris-Chambers
Publisher, Caribnewsroom
parrischambers@gmail.com
