Trinidad and Tobago reserves position as CARICOM reaffirms Caribbean as Zone of Peace

All Heads of Government of the Caribbean Community (CARICOM), with the exception of Trinidad and Tobago, have reaffirmed their commitment to maintaining the Caribbean as a Zone of Peace. Trinidad and Tobago reserved its position on the issues discussed at the meeting.

The regional leaders met recently against the backdrop of increased United States military activity in the Caribbean and strikes on vessels, which the US claims were carrying drug traffickers from Venezuela.

Since the attacks began in early September, at least 27 people have been killed, including two alleged nationals of Trinidad and Tobago.

According to reports, the US has deployed at least eight warships, a nuclear-powered submarine, and fighter jets to the region. Washington has also submitted a request to Grenada to install radar and other equipment on its territory.

In a statement issued on Saturday, CARICOM reaffirmed the importance of dialogue and engagement in pursuing the peaceful resolution of disputes and conflicts. The grouping said leaders remain willing to assist towards that objective.

They “reiterated their continued commitment to fighting narcotrafficking and the illegal trade in small arms and light weapons, which adversely affect the region” and “underscored that efforts to overcome these challenges should be through ongoing international cooperation and within international law”.

The leaders also reaffirmed their “unequivocal support for the sovereignty and territorial integrity of countries in the region and the safety and livelihoods of the people of the region”.