Grenada Hosts 47th CARICOM Summit to celebrate 50 years of Independence

The 47th Regular Meeting of the Conference of Heads of Government of the Caribbean Community (CARICOM) will take place from July 28 to 30, 2024, in St George’s, Grenada. This is in keeping with other activities happening within Grenada as the country celebrates its 50th anniversary of independence.

The hosting of the Conference in Grenada is an epoch-making event, marking its thirty-five years after the signing of the Grand Anse Declaration, a historic document that set CARICOM on the path to a Single Market and Economy, among other important projects crucial to regional integration and development.

Top officials are expected to address the Conference at the opening ceremony. Keynote addresses are expected from Dr Carla Barnett, Secretary General of CARICOM, on the achievements and future directions of the community, among other addresses.

Outgoing Chairman of CARICOM Dr Mohamed Irfaan Ali will speak to that progress and the formidable challenges ahead. The Incoming Chairman of CARICOM, Dickon Mitchell, will present his vision and priorities for the upcoming term.

A major highlight of this year’s meeting will be the formal admission of Curaçao as an Associate member of CARICOM. The Community is given a strong message about continuing determination in broadening and deepening the regional integration process.

Grenada, therefore, as host country, must provide that exuberant environment and rich cultural background to the conference that must reinforce its themes of unity and progress. This milestone of 50 years of independence for the island is a poignant reminder of the journey toward self-determination and regional cooperation.

It is expected that during the 47th Regular Meeting of the Conference of Heads of Government of CARICOM, important discussions will be held regarding economic integration, climate resilience, and social development.

As leaders converge in St George’s, the spirit of collaboration and shared vision will harness the agenda forward in support of the enduring relevance of CARICOM to effectively tackle contemporary challenges that confront the Caribbean.