Remarks by Ambassador Lolita Applewhaite, Secretary – General (ag) Caribbean Community (CARICOM) On the Occasion Of the Thirty – Second Meeting of the Council for Trade and Economic Development (COTED)

The myriad issues before this Thirty-Second Meeting of the Council for Trade and Economic Development (COTED) speak to the breadth and depth of the regional integration movement and its impact on the everyday life of the citizens of the Caribbean Community (CARICOM).
The discussions are taking place in what continues to be a difficult environment in the Region as a result of the global economic and financial crises, although there are some positive signs of recovery with some of our Member States being able to take advantage of the upturn in the
global economy.
Matters engaging our attention over the next two days will range from internal and external trade, free movement, contingent rights, consumer protection, rising fuel and food prices, to transportation, culture and private sector organisational issues. It is clear therefore that decisions and recommendations on these agenda items affect not only states and institutions but also the individual citizens of our Region.