In her New Year’s message, Mia Amor Mottley, the incoming Chairman of CARICOM, emphasized the need to get the Caribbean Single Market and Economy (CSME) back on track in 2025.
She acknowledged that the COVID-19 pandemic disrupted the full implementation of the CSME but stressed its vital importance for the region’s unity and economic growth, particularly through the free movement of people.
Mottley also highlighted the need for CARICOM to meet and exceed its goals for food and nutritional security, as outlined in the “Vision 25 by 2025” agenda. She called for stronger cooperation in areas like investment, skills, and procurement, and urged CARICOM to continue advocating for global financial reforms to address the challenges facing small island states.
The new CARICOM chair also emphasized the importance of the Multidimensional Vulnerability Index (MVI) and strengthening resilience against global crises. Looking ahead, she called for unity across the Caribbean to tackle issues like the climate crisis and gun violence, and urged regional citizens to take responsibility in building a stronger, more unified Caribbean.
