PM Holness: “There Can Be No Sustained Prosperity Without Security”

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MONTEGO BAY, JAMAICA – The 49th Meeting of the Conference of Heads of Government of CARICOM is now underway in Montego Bay, Jamaica.

Today marked the first round of business sessions and diplomatic engagements but it all began Sunday night with a formal opening ceremony at the Montego Bay Convention Center where a parade of flags representing CARICOM’s 15 member states and six associates were ushered in by the Jamaica’s Combined Cadet Force.

Following closely behind was Caribbean heads of government including Bahamas Prime Minister Philip Davis.

With local performers, traditional music, and all the ceremonial flair, the 49th meeting was declared open under the theme: “People, Partnerships, Prosperity: Promoting A Secure and Sustainable Future.”

Chair of CARICOM for the next six months, Prime Minister of Jamaica, DR. Andrew Holness emphasizing the need stronger partnerships not just in the region, but throughout the world.

He says the time for prosperity for our people is now, but it must be inclusive.

Some 46 countries were represented at the opening which the chair says is a signal of global confidence in CARICOM’s leadership.

He added that CARICOM will be front and center at upcoming events, including the second CARICOM-Africa summit in Ethiopia and the UN’s 80th anniversary celebrations.

Dr. Holness also warned that escalating gang violence poses a serious threat to the region emphasizing that security is a prerequisite for prosperity.