(CARICOM Secretariat, Turkeyen, Greater Georgetown, Guyana) – Caribbean Community (CARICOM), Secretary-General, Dr. Carla Barnett, on May 4 accredited a new Ambassador of the United Kingdom (UK) to CARICOM, His Excellency Joseph Guy Fisher, MBE.
During the Accreditation Ceremony at the CARICOM Secretariat Headquarters in Georgetown, Guyana, Dr. Barnett said that the UK remains a vital partner for CARICOM as it navigates the complexities of the geopolitical landscape.
Outlining areas of CARICOM-UK collaboration, the Secretary-General highlighted cooperation in combatting the illicit trade in small arms and light weapons, enhancing maritime security and climate change.
She noted the successful convening of the 12th UK-Caribbean Forum, held recently in London where discussions focused on areas including economic resilience, renewable energy, and citizen security, as well as a Plan of Action to ensure that commitments under those areas “translate into tangible benefits” for the people of the Community.
Using the opportunity to advocate for Haiti, the Secretary-General said that CARICOM looks forward to the UK’s continued support. “The scale of the insecurity and humanitarian challenges requires the sustained commitment of our international partners,” she told the new Ambassador to CARICOM.
Dr. Barnett added that the Community welcomes the growing consensus on reparatory justice, and the opportunity to continue the dialogue during the Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting in Antigua and Barbuda later this year.
Describing CARICOM as “an important reginal organisation and a longstanding partner and friend of the UK,” Ambassador Fisher said he looks forward to strengthening the relationship built on history, strong people-to-people ties, and a common belief in the value of value of regional cooperation and multilateral engagement.
He highlighted the UK’s partnership with CARICOM on climate adaptation, resilience, sustainable development, and strengthening regional coordination during periods of acute challenges, including climate-related emergencies.
Ambassador Fisher added that his tenure would focus on listening, learning, and ensuring that UK-CARICOM cooperation remains responsive to the priorities of the Community and grounded in mutual respect and trust.
