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CARICOM pushes unified response to global shifts, backs Guyana’s COP35 bid
CARICOM pushes unified response to global shifts, backs Guyana’s COP35 bid
The Caribbean Community, CARICOM has called for urgent and coordinated action to confront mounting global uncertainties, as it concluded its 50th Regular Meeting of the Conference of Heads of Government in Basseterre, Basseterre, St Kitts and Nevis.
The four-day summit, held from February 24 to 27 under the chairmanship of St Kitts and Nevis Prime Minister, Dr Terrance Drew, brought together regional leaders to deliberate on security, economic integration, external trade, reparations and the situation in Haiti.
In her opening remarks, CARICOM Secretary-General, Dr Carla Barnett, urged member states to take advantage of opportunities presented by the shifting global order.
She said as new markets emerge and strategic alliances are recalibrated, the Region must engage with clarity and cohesion in areas such as energy transition, digital infrastructure, climate resilience and technology to attract investments aligned with its development priorities.
Outgoing Chairman and Jamaica’s Prime Minister, Andrew Holness, said the speed of global change was outpacing regional coordination, warning that climate shocks, criminal networks and technological disruption were evolving faster than existing policy and regulatory frameworks.
“The question before us is not whether CARICOM can endure, but whether it can deliver for our people with urgency and relevance in a rapidly changing world,” he said.
President of Suriname, Jennifer Geerlings-Simons, and Prime Minister of Trinidad and Tobago, Kamla Persad-Bissessar, also stressed the need for regional unity, describing it as a necessity in the face of economic volatility, climate insecurity and geopolitical shifts.
During the meeting, Heads of Government held discussions with the United States Secretary of State, Marco Rubio, and agreed on the need to establish a 21st-century cooperation framework covering migration, security cooperation, trade and investment, disaster recovery and technical assistance.
Leaders noted that the US remains a valued partner and welcomed Washington’s commitment to reinvigorate traditional ties within the Western Hemisphere.
The Conference also engaged Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates on expanded economic collaboration, including structured mechanisms to unlock opportunities in the digital economy, climate resilience, water security and infrastructure development.
In a major financial boost, Afreximbank announced an increase in its global limit for CARICOM initiatives from $3bn to $5bn, as the Region seeks to strengthen economic ties with Africa and expand trade and investment flows.
On Haiti, the Conference reaffirmed its commitment to supporting stability and free and fair elections, and expressed appreciation to Kenya for leading the Multinational Security Support mission, now transitioned to a Gang Suppression Force authorised by the United Nations Security Council.
The Bahamas and Jamaica were also commended for contributing personnel and operational support.
Heads of Government reiterated their steadfast backing for the sovereignty and territorial integrity of Belize and Guyana in border matters before the International Court of Justice, calling on all parties to respect and implement the court’s decisions when delivered.
On regional security, leaders welcomed progress on model legislation for criminal justice reform and the offer by the United Nations Development Programme to support the expansion of a Police Record Management Information System across member states.
On economic integration, the Conference approved the inclusion of additional professions under the free movement of skilled nationals within the CARICOM Single Market and Economy and adopted amendments to the Revised Treaty of Chaguaramas to streamline Rules of Origin adjustments.
Heads of Government also approved a CARICOM Industrial Policy and Strategy Framework aimed at fostering competitive and sustainable industries across the Region.
In a significant climate development, the Conference agreed to support Guyana’s bid to host COP35 in 2030.
The leaders expressed appreciation to the Government and people of St Kitts and Nevis for hosting the landmark 50th meeting and accepted Saint Lucia’s invitation to host the 51st Regular Meeting from July 5 to 8, 2026.
Extra
Diaspora Watch – Vol. 98
Diaspora Watch Newspaper is pleased to announce the release of its 98th edition, presenting readers with another rich blend of impactful stories, insightful analyses and inspiring human-interest features from across the world.
Leading this edition is the heartwarming cover story, “Godchildren Honour Emmanuel and Joy Ojiribe at 40th Anniversary Celebration in US,” which chronicles the remarkable legacy of love, faith, mentorship and family built over four decades by the celebrated couple, culminating in a memorable celebration attended by loved ones and admirers.
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The edition also brings readers up to speed on major international developments, including US President Donald Trump’s announcement of an Intel-Apple chip deal, Ghana’s move towards a local takeover of Gold Fields’ Tarkwa mine, CARICOM’s renewed commitment to improving citizens’ lives under incoming Chair Pierre, the possibility of cocoa prices rising above $10,000 per tonne once again, a comprehensive 14-Point Roadmap to De-escalation and Reconstruction, Singapore’s impressive 38.4 per cent growth in non-oil exports driven by artificial intelligence, and warnings from Kew scientists that AI and digitalization could play a crucial role in preventing global plant extinction.
On the back page, readers will find the inspiring story of Adenugba, who has been honored with the African Diaspora Fashion Platform Award, recognizing excellence, creativity and outstanding contributions to fashion within the global African diaspora community.
As always, Diaspora Watch Newspaper remains committed to delivering credible journalism, promoting African excellence, strengthening diaspora engagement and providing readers with balanced perspectives on global affairs, business, innovation and development.
The 98th edition is now available to readers across print and digital platforms. We invite everyone to pick up a copy and stay informed on the stories shaping Africa, the diaspora and the wider world.
News
SpaceX to join Nasdaq-100 index July 7
SpaceX to join Nasdaq-100 index July 7
SpaceX will be added to the Nasdaq-100 Index on July 7, following confirmation by exchange operator Nasdaq, a move expected to trigger a surge in passive investment into the aerospace and artificial intelligence company.
The inclusion means exchange-traded funds and other investment vehicles that track the tech-heavy Nasdaq-100 Index will be required to purchase SpaceX shares, a development that typically boosts demand and supports a company’s stock price.
SpaceX, founded by billionaire entrepreneur Elon Musk, made its Nasdaq debut on June 12 and has experienced volatile financial performance in recent years, alternating between periods of losses and modest profits.
The company reported a net loss of $4.9bn in its most recent financial year, underscoring the challenges it continues to face despite strong investor interest in its space technology and artificial intelligence businesses.
The company’s addition to the index comes after Nasdaq, alongside other major index providers including FTSE Russell and MSCI, eased some of its listing eligibility requirements in an effort to attract more companies seeking to list on U.S. exchanges.
The revised criteria include changes to profitability requirements, the waiting period after a company’s initial public offering and the number of publicly traded shares required for inclusion in certain indices.
Meanwhile, S&P Global has maintained a more cautious approach.
The index provider said earlier this month that it would not alter its eligibility requirements for SpaceX to join its flagship indices, including the benchmark S&P 500.
According to S&P Global, the company will not be considered for inclusion in the S&P 500 until it has been publicly listed for at least 12 months.
The development comes as other leading artificial intelligence firms, including OpenAI and Anthropic, are widely expected to pursue initial public offerings either later this year or in 2027, with analysts projecting valuations exceeding $1tn.
News
Uzodimma Backs FLAC, Urges Nigerians to Unite Against Cancer
Uzodimma Backs FLAC, Urges Nigerians to Unite Against Cancer
Governor Hope Uzodimma of Imo State has reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to supporting the First Ladies Against Cancer, FLAC Nigeria, while calling on Nigerians to join efforts to combat cancer through increased awareness, early detection and sustained advocacy.
The governor made the pledge during a courtesy visit by members of FLAC and later at a gala night organised in their honour at the Government House in Owerri.
Speaking at the event, Uzodimma commended the organisation for its humanitarian interventions and contributions to improving cancer prevention, treatment and care across the country.
“I am excited to host you in Imo State and I commend your humanitarian services in Nigeria,” the governor said, assuring the delegation of his administration’s continued support for the organisation’s programmes.
He described Imo as the hospitality capital of the South-East and welcomed the delegates on behalf of the state government and people, assuring them of their safety during their stay.
The event also featured emotional testimonies from cancer survivors, including men, women and children, who recounted their experiences with the disease while encouraging Nigerians to embrace early screening and treatment.
Addressing guests at the gala night, Uzodimma stressed that the fight against cancer requires collective action, public education and efforts to eliminate the stigma associated with the disease.
He also lauded the President Bola Tinubu-led Federal Government for its investments in cancer prevention, treatment and palliative care, urging Nigerians to support ongoing reforms in the health sector.
“We need a new Nigeria where everyone participates in nation-building,” the governor said, adding that early detection remains critical to improving survival rates among cancer patients.
Earlier, the Chairperson of FLAC Nigeria and wife of the Imo State Governor, Mrs Chioma Uzodimma, said the delegation visited to appreciate the governor for his consistent support for the organisation’s advocacy and activities.
She explained that FLAC, whose membership comprises serving and former first ladies across the country, marks Cancer Survivors Month every June to celebrate survivors, inspire hope and raise awareness about the disease.
She described the governor as “a special friend of FLAC” and presented him with an award on behalf of the organisation in recognition of his support for its mission.
The gala night featured musical performances, a fashion parade by cancer survivors, comedy, cake cutting, presentation of gifts to survivors and a fundraising session to support the organisation’s advocacy programmes.
Mrs Uzodimma disclosed that more than N100m was raised during the fundraising to support FLAC’s ongoing cancer awareness and advocacy initiatives.
The delegation included the wives of the governors of Adamawa, Zamfara and Ogun states, Hajia Lami Fintiri, Hajia Huriyya Lawal and Mrs Bamidele Abiodun; immediate past FLAC Chairperson, Dr Zainab Shinkafi-Bagudu; former First Lady of Niger State, Dr Amina Abubakar; and former First Lady of Oyo State and ambassador-designate, Dr Florence Ajumobi, among other dignitaries.
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