Caribbean leader discuss global conflicts and regional security at CELAC Summit

The VIII Summit of the Community of Latin American and Caribbean States (CELAC) in St Vincent and the Grenadines has brought regional leaders together to discuss matters of great significance to the collective.

One of the primary issues on the agenda was global conflicts and manner in which they can be resolved. The leaders at the summit also spoke of regional security and interests with in the Caribbean and Latin American regions.

Prime Minister Ralph Gonsalves Chaired the Summit and addressed it with the motto, ‘Faith, Fresh Hope and Love’. The conflict in Gaza between Hamas an Israel featured in his speech and he expressed his disappointment with the subsequent humanitarian crisis that continues to escalate.

He added that CELAC’s Draft Declaration of Kingstown seeks humanitarian assistance, an immediate ceasefire, a peaceful resolution to the conflict and pursuing a two-state solution, which has been backed by the United Nation as well.

Prime Minister Gonsalves has similar issues with the situation in Ukraine and called for peace through negotiations between Russia, Ukraine and NATO.

He stated the following, “There is no other practical or wise conclusion. The continuation of this senseless war has the potential of leading humanity into a nuclear Armageddon.”

He then shifted his focus to the Caribbean region, with a specific focus on Haiti. According to PM Gonsalves, Haiti is feeling the effects of turmoil over the long term which has affected the legitimacy of the government.

With regards to this matter Prime Minister Gonsalves stated the following, “At the end of the day this is a matter profoundly for the Haitian people. They are required to make judicious compromises, without compromising their own values in the interest of the people of Haiti. Perfection must not be made the enemy of a good transitional staging post on the way to peace, security, and the democratic way of life.”

At a recent meeting of CARICOM leaders, Prime Minister Gonsalves clarified that he recognizes the challenges faced by Prime Minister Haiti and has reiterated that he supports his cause to bring stability to the nation after years of turmoil.

He also called on other stakeholders in Haiti to come to a consensus and facilitate stable governance, in accordance with the framework set by the United Nations Security Council, with regards to security, humanitarianism and development.

Prime Minister Gonsalves also highlighted the fact that CELAC plays an important role in allowing for various parties to engage in meaningful dialogue and is also focusing on the dispute between Guyana and Venezuela.

He also thanked many of the members of CELAC and CARICOM for their involvement in formulating the Declaration of Argyle. He mentioned President Dr Irfaan Ali of Guyana and President Nicolas Maduro specifically, calling them wise and mature leaders who played a significant role in ensuring that tensions do not escalate into conflict.

Many of the members of CELAC have appreciated the intergovernmental organisation for facilitating meaningful dialogue and providing political consultation.

Such efforts have resulted on the Draft Declaration of Kingstown which is supposed to be put into effect in due time.

Another significant development for CELAC is that St Vincent and the Grenadines will be giving the Pro Tempore Presidency of the Community of Latin American and Caribbean States (CELAC) to Honduras.

Honduras will hold onto the presidency till 2025 and bring a different perspective to the organisation as it looks to move forward in the future.

President Irfaan Ali also played a significant role at the summit and reiterated that Guyana is committed to maintaining peace in the Caribbean and Latin American region, which is his priority.

President Ali also referred to the interactions between him and President Maduro last year, stating the following, “I assured everyone at that time, and now, that I am prepared to speak with President Maduro on any aspect that may contribute to enhancing the relationship between our two countries. The aspect relating to Venezuela’s claim to the Essequibo is before the International Court of Justice and the Joint Declaration of Argyle on Dialogue and Peace acknowledges that Guyana is committed to the process and procedures of the International Court of Justice for the resolution of the border controversy.”

“We are prepared to accept the judgement of the Court on this matter. I can assure you that Guyana remains steadfast in its commitment to the international judicial process, as well as, to maintaining our region as a “Zone of Peace”. We want peace. We want prosperity for our neighbours and all in this region. We want to be our brother’s keeper with our neighbour.”

President Ali also spoke of the fact that he has been affected profoundly by the conflicts in Gaza and Ukraine, terming the aggression on display as senseless and inhumane. He also called on the international community to come together and help save Palestinian and Ukrainian people.