Great challenges for Caribbean countries
But these natural assets stand in stark contrast to some of the regions ills. The region is a justifiably renowned tourist getaway. Many CARICOM countries have long, strong democratic roots that should help guide you through perilous times. These problems pose great challenges for Caribbean countries. The international financial system is in turmoil. The impacts of global warming are being felt with ever growing ferocity.
The world faces serious threats to food and eastern caribbean cruises energy security. I welcome this opportunity to deepen our ties further still. Since the United Nations and CARICOM signed our cooperation agreement some 12 years ago, we have collaborated closely on a number of critical issues.