Antigua, Guatemala, May 12, 2023
Prime Minister Hon. John Briceño led Belize’s delegation at the IX Summit of the Association of Caribbean States (ACS) held in Antigua, Guatemala, on May 12. The summit was held under the theme, “Innovating integration through the sustainable development of the Greater Caribbean.” It was preceded by Senior Officials and Ministerial meetings.
Delegations deliberated on themes such as strengthening and developing collective capacities of the Greater Caribbean, promoting the sustainable development of the Caribbean Sea, post-COVID-19 recovery, and revitalizing and strengthening the ACS. The summit concluded with the adoption of the Declaration of Antigua.
In his remarks, Prime Minister Briceño encouraged the ACS “to remain relevant and viable” amidst global challenges and to refocus on the organization’s roots ─ the sustainable development of the Caribbean Sea.
Prime Minister Briceño also held bilateral meetings with H.E. Dr. Alejandro Giammattei Falla, President of the Republic of Guatemala, as well as with leaders of the delegations of ACS observer nations, who were present, to discuss matters of mutual interest. These included the United Arab Emirates, the Republic of Korea, Slovenia, Spain, and Saudi Arabia.
Belize’s delegation included Ms. Narda Garcia, Chief Executive Officer in the Office of the Prime Minister; H.E. Jose Alpuche, Ambassador of Belize to Guatemala; and Mr. Idelso Leslie, Counsellor at the Embassy of Belize in Guatemala.
The Association of Caribbean States is an association of nations centred in the Caribbean Basin. It was formed with the aim of promoting consultation, cooperation, and concerted action among all the countries of the Caribbean coastal area. The ACS Secretariat is in Trinidad & Tobago.
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