And the head table was also asked about where CARICOM stands as it relates to Venezuela and Cuba. Following the devastating earthquake in Venezuela, Barbados' PM Mia Mottley explained that the Caribbean is sending supplies. She also gave CARICOM's stance on Cuba's humanitarian crisis.
Mia Mottley, Prime Minister of Barbados
"Guyana's coordinating a ferry, and there are 88 containers going from the majority of CARICOM on that boat that Guyana has coordinated. Barbados through the RSS would have sent in people within 48, 72 hours, I believe, to be able to help with the rescue efforts."
"I think that we are agreed that the discussion and debate must take place but without prejudice-discussion and debate for a peaceful resolution of what is transpiring with Cuba, that there is a humanitarian crisis and you cannot continue to ignore that reality. The United States of America, I believe, has said itself it will contribute to the relief of the humanitarian crisis. The Caribbean has been resolute in saying that we want to do it. In Barbados' own case, we had to spend 5 months and the money was returned twice, and this is the third time for us to buy baby milk for the children of Cuba, which was one of the clear priorities so that the region will continue. We recognize that this is always going to be a complicated and complex issue, as was reflected in the United Nations debate on Tuesday, but we want to remain focused on the humanitarian efforts and we want to remain focused on the dialogue that should continue to take place."
