Incoming CARICOM chairman, Haiti’s President Jovenel Moïse says the regional grouping is moving towards creating the world’s first climate resilient region in the year ahead.
“2018 dawns for the Caribbean Community, with the prospect of seizing an opportunity out of a crisis,” said Moïse in his New Year’s message.
“As we begin the rebuilding process after the devastating hurricanes of last September, as well Hurricane Matthew, which pounded the region on October 3 to 4, 2016, we do so with the aim of creating the first climate resilient region in the world.
“The absolute necessity to create a climate smart region is clear given the effects of climate change, which have brought us droughts, mega hurricanes, heavy floods and unusual weather patterns, all of which adversely affect our development,” he added.
Moïse said among issues he intends to advance during his tenure will be those related to natural disasters and climate change.
The incoming CARICOM chairman said efforts will also be made in 2018 in increasing the efficiency and effectiveness of the CARICOM Single Market and Economy (CSME) in “providing the basis for our economic growth”.
He said Haiti looks forward to welcoming the Community to its shores in February for the 29th Intersessional Meeting of the Conference of Heads of Government.
