President Dr. Irfaan Ali, in his capacity as the Caricom Chairman, expressed profound satisfaction with the outcomes of the recently concluded Caricom/Canada summit.
This two-day summit culminated in a substantial commitment towards advancing renewable energy projects in the Caribbean.
Canada’s Prime Minister, Justin Trudeau, announced a significant financial pledge of up to 58.5 million dollars in collaboration with the Caribbean Development Bank.
This funding injection is poised to provide crucial support to renewable energy initiatives throughout the region.
Additionally, Trudeau committed six million dollars to fortify resilient and renewable energy systems through the Caribbean Climate Smart Fund.
He underscored the vital role of clean, reliable, and affordable energy in the dual pursuit of climate action and economic prosperity.
President Ali, reflecting on the summit’s accomplishments, underlined the considerable time invested in establishing a robust framework to foster investment and collaboration within the private sectors of Caricom and Canada.
He further emphasized the discussions centered around mechanisms facilitating seamless movement between Canada and Caricom nations.
In a summary of the achievements, President Ali highlighted that the summit succeeded in cultivating greater trust, reinforcing friendships, and broadening relations between Canada and Caricom member states.
Earlier in the day, the President delivered remarks at a reception hosted by Prime Minister Trudeau, where he lauded the invaluable contributions of the Guyanese and broader Caribbean diaspora to Canada’s growth.
He assured attendees, including influential members of the diaspora, that they will always have a place to call home.