Pierre urges renewed commitment to stronger Caribbean on CARICOM Day

Prime Minister and Chairman of the Caribbean Community (CARICOM) Philip J. Pierre has called on citizens to recommit to regional unity and cooperation, saying the 15-member bloc must renew its efforts to build a stronger, fairer and more prosperous future amid mounting global challenges.

In his CARICOM Day 2026 message, Pierre said CARICOM remains rooted in the belief that its member states can accomplish more collectively than individually.

“CARICOM has always been more than an institution. It is a promise: a promise that our small states can achieve far more together than we ever could alone; a promise that our people, our cultures, our economies, and our aspirations are strengthened when we work in unity,” he said.

Pierre acknowledged that the region continues to face climate pressures, economic uncertainty, food and energy challenges, security concerns and the need to create greater opportunities for young people. Despite those challenges, he said the Caribbean has consistently demonstrated resilience.

“Time and again, our people have shown that we can meet adversity with courage, adapt with determination, and move forward with confidence,” he stated.

The CARICOM chairman said the Community’s focus must now be on renewal, with the aim of building a stronger, fairer, safer and more prosperous Caribbean.

“This is why our focus must now be on renewal,” Pierre said.

“We must build a stronger, fairer, safer, and more prosperous Community; one that delivers real opportunities and meaningful progress for the people of our region,” he added.

He also urged member states to deepen regional integration by improving transportation and connectivity, strengthening food and nutrition security, advancing the CARICOM Single Market and Economy, embracing digital transformation and supporting innovation.

Pierre used the occasion to encourage young people to play an active role in shaping the region’s future.

“On this CARICOM Day, I especially call on our young people to see themselves as leaders, innovators, and builders of this Caribbean Community. Our future will be shaped by your ideas, your creativity, your energy, and your belief in what we can achieve together,” he said.

He concluded by urging Caribbean citizens to recommit to the founding principles of CARICOM.

“Let us recommit ourselves to the founding ideals of CARICOM: cooperation, solidarity, shared development, and respect for the dignity of every Caribbean person,” Pierre said, wishing citizens a happy, hopeful, and meaningful CARICOM Day 2026.

The article Pierre urges renewed commitment to stronger Caribbean on CARICOM Day is from St. Lucia Times.