Improvements in healthcare and digital connectivity through new agreements

In another major step towards strengthening healthcare and digital connectivity within the island and the wider Caribbean, Barbados signed two key agreements with European partners during day two of the 48th CARICOM Heads of Government Meeting on Wednesday.

The agreements—one focusing on pharmaceutical regulatory cooperation and the other on satellite technology for digital transformation— are in keeping with the country’s commitment to enhancing regional resilience and modernising key sectors.

The first memorandum of understanding (MoU), known as PharmaNext, establishes a tripartite collaboration between Barbados, Guyana, and Lithuania to advance pharmaceutical regulation. 

The agreement is expected to boost medicine quality control, harmonise standards, and improve access to safe pharmaceuticals across the Caribbean.

Minister of Health and Wellness Senator Dr Jerome Walcott signed on behalf of Barbados, alongside Guyanese Foreign Minister Hugh Todd and Lithuanian Ambassador Rytis Paulauskas. 

The signing took place in the presence of Barbados’ Prime Minister Mia Mottley, Guyanese President Dr Irfaan Ali, and European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen.

The second MoU, signed between the Caribbean Telecommunications Union (CTU) and Spanish satellite operator Hispasat, focuses on expanding broadband and digital infrastructure in the Caribbean through satellite technology.

The deal was signed by CTU Secretary General Rodney Taylor and Hispasat President Pedro Duque, with Prime Minister Mottley, Grenadian Prime Minister Dickon Mitchell, President von der Leyen, and President Ali witnessing the inking of the deal.

Officials say the initiative will improve connectivity in underserved areas, enhance digital access for businesses and residents, and support regional efforts to build a more technologically advanced economy.

Both agreements, which come on the heels of similar local advancements in health and innovation sectors, build on Barbados’ push to modernise healthcare and digital services, aligning with its national development goals. (SM)