Curaçao has officially joined the Caribbean Community (CARICOM) as its sixth Associate Member, marking a significant step in its regional integration. CARICOM Secretary-General Carla Barnett extended a warm welcome to Curaçao, expressing anticipation for the island’s active participation in the organization.

Prime Minister Gilmar Pisas of Curaçao emphasized that the island’s membership will not conflict with its obligations to the Kingdom of the Netherlands. He affirmed that Curaçao’s commitment to CARICOM aligns with its deep-rooted cultural connections to the Caribbean and its dedication to regional integration.

“Joining CARICOM reaffirms our dedication to collaborating on shared values and aspirations that unite us as small island development states,” Pisas stated. “We bring a unique mix of cultural heritage, economic strengths, and social perspectives that will enrich the CARICOM community.”

Pisas highlighted the strategic benefits of Curaçao’s integration into CARICOM, citing the island’s role as a potential hub for regional trade. “Economic integration is central to CARICOM’s mission,” he said. “With our strategic location, well-developed ports, and professional services, we can enhance regional connectivity, streamline the movement of goods, and stimulate job creation across the Caribbean.”

To demonstrate its commitment, Curaçao has initiated trade negotiations with the Dominican Republic and Trinidad and Tobago and is preparing to discuss agreements with Suriname. These negotiations aim to establish mutually beneficial trade agreements, contingent upon Curaçao’s membership in the World Trade Organization.

Additionally, Curaçao is dedicated to supporting CARICOM initiatives in key areas such as renewable energy, agriculture, digital technology, telecommunications, human capital development, climate resilience, and sustainable development.

Curaçao joins five other Associate Members of CARICOM: Anguilla, Bermuda, the British Virgin Islands, the Cayman Islands, and the Turks and Caicos Islands. The announcement came as CARICOM’s 47th Regular Meeting of the Conference of Heads of Government took place in Grenada, where Prime Minister Dickon Mitchell of Grenada succeeded President Dr. Irfaan Ali of Guyana as CARICOM