Leaders of the Caribbean Community (CARICOM) met with a bipartisan United States (U.S) Congressional delegation on Saturday 30th November 2024, in Barbados. Barbados was also observing its 58th Independence Anniversary
The U.S delegation which was led by Democratic Leader in the House of Representatives Congressman Hakeem Jeffries included Representative Maxine Waters (D) Ranking Member, Committee on Financial Services; Representative Gregory W. Meeks (D), Ranking Member, Foreign Affairs Committee, Member, Committee on Financial Services; and Representative Amata Coleman Radewagen (R) Vice-Chairman, Committee on Veterans’ Affairs, Member, Natural Resources Committee, Member, Foreign Affairs Committee.
According to the report the meeting focused on several issues including security, economic and climate goals for the U.S and CARICOM.
Last year Congressman Jeffries led a Congressional delegation visit to Trinidad and Tobago. He was joined by U.S Secretary of State Antony Blinken at the 45th Regular Meeting of the CARICOM Heads of Government Conference.
Hakeem has demonstrated a keen interest in the region. A significant number of his constituents (NY-8th District) are from the CARICOM region. On the issue of Guyana, last year the House Democratic leader boldly called for a politics of inclusion and better race relations. His call was also echoed by Secretary Blinken and Vice President Kamala Harris, who urged the Government of Guyana to engage in a politics of inclusive democracy and shared prosperity among the Guyanese people.
The Irfaan Ali government is yet to hisse heed to local and international calls for better governance and improve race relations in Guyana.