Búcaro highlighted Cuba's role as host of the event. Photo: Omara García Mederos
Havana, Nov 10 (RHC) The president of the Council of Ministers of the Association of Caribbean States (ACS), Mario Adolfo Búcaro, called on Thursday in Havana to favor dialogue and international cooperation to build a better future for the region.
During the inauguration of the 6th Association of Caribbean States International Cooperation Conference at the Packard Hotel, he highlighted the record of participation in a post-pandemic event, which begins an important chapter for the organization with components of hope, resilience, and solidarity.
"With the theme "The Greater Caribbean united towards economic recovery, sustainable and safe tourism" as a starting point, the event reflects the heart and affection that unites all Caribbean people," he added.
In his speech, he highlighted Cuba's role as host and thanked the presence not only of member and associate countries but also of observer organizations, social actors, and potential cooperation partners.
However, he said that opportunities must be built not only based on an event, but as part of a process.
Rodolfo Sabonge, ACS Secretary General
For his part, ACS Secretary General Rodolfo Sabonge recalled that the association was formed 28 years ago to bring the English-speaking Caribbean countries closer to those of Latin America that shared a common geographical framework: the Caribbean Sea.
"Its first conference was also held in Havana, but holding it here carries a more symbolic message: Cuba is characterized by its solidarity and cooperation with the rest of the world and with the Caribbean countries, and is currently one of the members most affected by natural disasters," he said.
Sabonge remarked that the inequality between developed and less developed countries was exacerbated as a result of the Covid-19 pandemic and its effects, war, inflation, and climate change, "which is why we are obliged to redouble our efforts," he emphasized.
"Therefore, ACS Member and Partner States approved the 2022-2028 action plan during a ministerial meeting last April," he noted.
The Secretary-General explained that the different special commissions approved the Implementation Plan and the 2022-2023 Work Plan which include projects aimed at the protection and conservation of the Caribbean Sea, especially in the face of climate change, and the reduction of risks due to natural or man-made disasters.
"In addition, they work on the integration and economic and social development of the Caribbean peoples, through intra-regional trade, the improvement of connectivity, and the enhancement of a sustainable tourism zone," he said.
He argued that the ACS is the ideal mechanism "as all these issues transcend the physical borders of countries, policies and existing sub-regional mechanisms".
Adriana Bolaños, Chair of the ACS Special Committee on Cooperation and Resource Mobilization
Meanwhile, Adriana Bolaños, Chair of the ACS Special Committee on Cooperation and Resource Mobilization, detailed that the action plan contemplates the next six years with concrete, measurable, and achievable objectives, and actions.
"This will allow us to start a new cycle and take advantage of this conference to develop and deepen alliances, agreements, and commitments that allow its implementation," she said. (Source: PL)
