Leaders from Caribbean Community (CARICOM) Member States will gather in Grenada from 28-30 July 2024, for the 47th Regular Meeting of the Conference of CARICOM Heads of Government.
The opening ceremony, hosted at St. George’s University, will feature addresses by the Outgoing Chairman of CARICOM, His Excellency Mohamed Irfaan Ali (President of Guyana), the Incoming Chairman of CARICOM, Prime Minister Dickon Mitchell (host of the event), and the Secretary-General of the Caribbean Community.
Heads of Government will hold their business sessions at the Radisson Beach Resort, situated next to the renowned Grand Anse Bay Beach. Grand Anse is historically significant as the birthplace of the Grand Anse Declaration and Work Programme, signed during the 10th Meeting of the Conference of CARICOM Heads of Government on 12 July 1989.
The Declaration aimed to enhance economic and political cooperation among Member States, emphasizing principles of sovereignty, non-interference, and equality. Notably, it led to the establishment of the CARICOM Single Market and Economy (CSME), promoting economic growth, competitiveness, and opportunities for citizens of Member States.
The Grand Anse Declaration not only focused on economic and political cooperation but also addressed critical issues such as environmental protection, education, culture, health, and regional security. Overall, it played a pivotal role in fostering closer collaboration among Commonwealth Caribbean nations, creating a shared sense of identity and purpose in the Region.
Grenada is hosting the Conference during its 50th Independent Anniversary celebration, while the Community is concluding its 50th Anniversary festivities. These milestones serve as a crucial reference point for leaders to shape a regional integration agenda beyond CARICOM’s 50th Anniversary. Against this backdrop, the issue of full free movement will be a central focus, as they deliberate on critical steps to advance their mandate. Notably, CARICOM Heads of Government made this landmark decision during the 45th Regular Meeting of the Conference, which coincided with CARICOM’s 50th Anniversary. The agreement resonated across the Community, carrying high expectations for enhanced integration through the CARICOM Single Market and Economy (CSME).
