H.E. LESLIA MILLER-BRICE, HIGH COMMISSIONER OF THE BAHAMAS TO CARICOM AND CHAIR, NATIONAL INDEPENDENCE SECRETARIAT
REMARKS AT CARICOM PRESS BRIEFING
THURSDAY, 9TH FEBRUARY, 2023
OFFICE OF THE PRIME MINISTER
NASSAU, THE BAHAMAS

Good morning,

My role as High Commissioner of The Bahamas to CARICOM is one I take great pride in, to not only represent our country within the region but to provide recommendations and support to our government in fostering sound relationships within the region, protecting the interests of The Bahamas and keeping the government aware of regional matters.

I count it a privilege to also be here as the 50th Independence Secretariat Chair because 2023 marks a significant milestone for CARICOM and our nation as we both turn 50.  As a member of CARICOM for the past 40 years, The Bahamas has made invaluable contributions to the region's socioeconomic and cultural advancement. Together, we have built a united and resilient Caribbean Community that has produced many reasons to celebrate.  Moreover, it is these same milestones and triumphs that remind us of the value of unity, collaboration and collective efforts.

Next week, I look forward to welcoming our regional counterparts and diplomatic colleagues from within the region. I look forward to Prime Minister Davis’ Chairmanship over the deliberations and in-depth discussions that I believe will underscore the urgency of regional cooperation on key issues of national and regional importance such as energy security, climate change and food security particularly in light of inflation and cost of living crises at home and regionally.

Next week, we will have the opportunity to showcase our Bahamian talent with an evening of entertainment, music and art.  We will pause to honour and pay tribute to Dame Janet Bostwick.  And we look forward to sharing with our Caribbean brothers and sisters a taste of our culture, our heritage and Bahamian pride.

But, beyond the jubilant celebrations and comradery, we aim to leave next week’s meetings more united, more connected and more focused on sound solutions that strengthen our region, uplift our communities and empower our people.

To CARICOM and to The Bahamas, may we always remember these words: “We cannot be separated in interest or divided in purpose.  Where there is unity, there is always victory.”

Thank You.