Santiago, Chile – In the face of growing global economic uncertainty and evolving trade dynamics, British Virgin Islands (BVI) Special Envoy Mr. Benito Wheatley and Secretary General of the Association of Caribbean States (ACS), H.E. Ambassador Noemí Espinoza Madrid, have called for enhanced cooperation across the Caribbean Basin to support the sustainable development and economic resilience of Latin America and the Caribbean.
The bilateral meeting, held on the sidelines of the 8th Meeting of the Forum of the Countries of Latin America and the Caribbean in Santiago, emphasized the importance of collaborative frameworks to navigate the ripple effects of shifting international trade policies impacting the region.
ACS at the Forefront of Regional Integration
The leaders underscored the critical role of the ACS, a 35-member intergovernmental organization, in facilitating collaboration among Caribbean Basin nations. The ACS continues to champion initiatives around sustainable tourism, transport, disaster risk reduction, trade, and the preservation of the Caribbean Sea, serving as a vital mechanism for dialogue and action within the region.
“The ACS is well positioned to facilitate closer cooperation across the Caribbean Basin,” said Mr. Wheatley. “Ambassador Espinoza is clearly committed to the vision of a successful, vibrant and sustainable Greater Caribbean.”
He added that the British Virgin Islands remains committed to backing the ACS’s efforts in deepening regional collaboration, particularly during what he described as “challenging and uncertain times.”
A Call for South-South and Triangular Cooperation
Both Mr. Wheatley and Ambassador Espinoza emphasized the need to intensify South-South cooperation and explore triangular cooperation with development partners to secure long-term economic sustainability. This approach aligns with global sustainable development goals, encouraging knowledge-sharing and strategic partnerships among countries of the Global South.
“The upcoming ACS Summit in Cartagena, Colombia will be an important opportunity to redouble our efforts,” noted Mr. Wheatley, pointing to the summit as a platform for recommitting to regional goals amidst international policy disruptions.
Regional Cooperation: A Pillar for Stability
As Latin America and the Caribbean continue to feel the impact of global economic transitions, this high-level engagement reinforces the importance of regional solidarity. In addition to trade and economic concerns, issues such as climate resilience, infrastructure development, and inclusive growth remain top priorities for ACS and its partners.
The ACS’s broad mandate and multilateral platform allow it to act as a conduit for Caribbean nations to influence the wider Latin American agenda and to secure necessary resources for development at a time when multilateralism faces increasing pressure.
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