The Commonwealth Secretary-General, the Rt Hon Patricia Scotland KC, will join Caribbean leaders at the 48th Regular Meeting of the Conference of Heads of Government of the Caribbean Community (CARICOM).
The high-level gathering will be held in Barbados from February 19 to 21, 2025, under the theme “Strength in Unity: Forging Caribbean Resilience, Inclusive Growth and Sustainable Development.” Discussions will focus on key regional challenges, including climate resilience, economic development, and food security.
Reflecting on her tenure, Secretary-General Scotland said:
“As I conclude my tenure as Commonwealth Secretary-General, I am proud to have worked alongside CARICOM leaders to advance our shared values of democracy, human rights, and sustainable development. Our collaboration has been a shining example of what can be achieved through unity and cooperation.”
“The Caribbean region is at the forefront of climate resilience and sustainable development, and I am honoured to have played a part in supporting these efforts. As I attend my final CARICOM meeting as Secretary-General, I reaffirm the Commonwealth’s commitment to continue working with the region to address its unique challenges.”
During the conference, Scotland will address a plenary session, providing an update on the Commonwealth Secretariat’s support for CARICOM members. Key topics will include the use of artificial intelligence, climate change adaptation, and debt management strategies. She will also spotlight the Commonwealth Climate Finance Access Hub, which helps small and vulnerable states secure climate funding.
While in Barbados, the Secretary-General will meet with regional leaders to discuss issues such as food and nutrition security, digital resilience, security concerns, and the CARICOM Single Market and Economy. These talks aim to outline a roadmap for ongoing Commonwealth support.
Scotland will provide updates on the next Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting (CHOGM), scheduled for 2026 in Antigua and Barbuda. The upcoming CHOGM will address challenges faced by Small Island Developing States, climate change, international trade, and economic innovation.
Looking ahead, Scotland expressed confidence in her successor, stating:
“My dear sister, the Hon. Shirley Ayorkor Botchwey, will be here in the Caribbean to hold her first CHOGM as Secretary-General, and will build on the progress we have made, taking our collective efforts to the next level, as we continue to champion the interests of our member states, particularly Small Island Developing States.”
Twelve CARICOM states are among the Commonwealth’s 56 members. The Commonwealth represents 2.7 billion people, with 33 member states classified as small nations, including many island countries.
The Commonwealth Secretariat continues to provide guidance on policymaking, technical assistance, and advisory services, supporting sustainable, inclusive, and equitable development across member nations. (PR)
