T&T’s Government and CARICOM have reinforced their respective stances regarding T&T’s non-attendance at a gathering which saw the re-election of CARICOM’s Secretary General, Carla Barnett.
A letter from Foreign Affairs Minister, Sean Sobers, to CARICOM Chairman, Dr Terrance Drew, stated that he was informed, even after querying, that the gathering was for Heads of Government only.
He adds that the matter of Ms Barnett’s reelection was not stated clearly on the agenda, which he believes is should have been.
The Minister then proceeded to call on CARICOM to make certain information available, insisting that T&T will not attend any emergency meeting until then.
He also made it clear that T&T recognizes Ms Barnett as CARICOM Secretary General, but only until the end of her current term, in August 2026.
This evening, CARICOM put out its own statement, following a meeting on April 10th.
Included is the claim that Minister Sobers was told that he could attend the in place of the Prime Minister, but raised concerns about seasickness on the boat ride to Nevis for the meeting.
The organization adds, “It is hoped that as the Community moves forward, it will be possible to revert to the use of internal mechanisms for addressing the challenges that arise from time to time, lest unfortunate and erroneous statements diminish the progress towards deepening the integration process for the benefit of the people of the Region.”
