Family photo of CARICOM Foreign Ministers and Heads of Delegation at Aztec Gardens, OAS Headquarters (Credit: Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Foreign Trade)
INTRODUCTION
Mr. President,
Foreign Ministers,
Heads of Delegations,
Secretary General Almagro
Assistant Secretary General Nestor Mendes
Permanent and Interim Representatives
Permanent Observers
My delegation is honoured to be present among the family of the Americas on this most auspicious occasion of the election of the First Nation of the Caribbean Community (CARICOM) to the post of Secretary General of this august body. History has been made in this 56th Special Session of the General Assembly of the Organization of American States. Today, we have collectively and decisively written a positive chapter in the history of the OAS.
This is a remarkable first for this 67-year-old organization. An organization which is the central pillar of the inter-American system and which unites thirty-two countries at various stages of development. Today more than ever the four pillars of the OAS – fostering peaceful conflict resolution, democracy, development and human rights bear much relevance.
The adoption by acclamation of Suriname to fill this important role is a positive signal for our organization.
A REGION ON THE BRINK
Mr. President, our hemisphere continues to confront economic instability which along with food insecurity, crime and violence and compounded by the challenges of the climate crisis, all impact the wellbeing of our citizens. They not only intensify our vulnerabilities but also undermine national and regional stability and hinder global progress. In the face of these shared challenges, our Hemisphere must exercise collective leadership to realize our shared goals and aspirations. Our goals are best realized through coordinated efforts and a commitment to multilateralism.
CARICOM’S COMMITMENT
Mr. President
CARICOM as a collective grouping, highly values its membership of and engagement within the Organization of American States. Our fourteen Member States though relatively small in size bring a strong tradition of democratic governance, respect for the rule of law, strong and independent judiciaries, defense of human rights and fundamental freedoms. These core values are fundamental to uphold and defend the OAS’ goals of democracy, peace, security and prosperity for all the people of the Americas.
A SILVER LINING OF HOPE
Mr. President,
Arguably, the future of the OAS hinges on strategic leadership. The incoming Secretary General will have to be visionary, able to drive consensus and orient decisive action on issues critical to the hemisphere. It can be appreciated that the OAS or any organisation functioning at its optimum, works best when the leadership works in tandem with the constituents it serves.
And, in this vein that the Government of Barbados wishes to thank the outgoing Secretary General and Assistant Secretary General and their teams for their service and wish them well in their future endeavors.
It is my sincere belief that Foreign Minister Albert Ramdin possesses the above attributes. He possesses a deep understanding of the Inter-American agenda and has the diplomatic and political skills to direct the work of the OAS in a meaningful and effective manner. His extensive expertise in international relations, innovative problem-solving abilities, combined with his collaborative and creative approach, suitably acquit him to discharge the duties of the Secretary General with a high degree of success.
A SENSE OF PURPOSE
Mr. President, permit me please to address a few short words directly to Minister Ramdin.
Minister Ramdin, as you ascend to the highest office of this august Organization, the people you have chosen to serve will be looking to your enlightened and inspired leadership.
The OAS you inherit is summoned to face bold new challenges in a changed and changing world and you will be forced to navigate unchartered waters which confront our entire Hemisphere. To adequately respond, you must embody good governance and you must at all times be resilient, nimble and an instrument of positive change.
This must be your imminent quest in the years ahead. Work to create a fit-for-purpose Organization.
CONCLUSION
As I close, Mr. President, the climate crisis, security, health and environment issues remind us daily of our own vulnerability as individuals, countries and as a hemisphere. It behooves us to be mindful of these concerns at all levels.
On behalf of the Government and people of Barbados, whom I represent today, we call on the continued solidarity and support of His Excellency Albert Ramdin, as he assumes the office of Secretary General of the OAS.
Minister Ramdin, please be assured that you have the continued support of Barbados as you assume the reins to lead this body.
Mr. President, I thank you.
Author: Government of Barbados
