Secretary-General's message to the 28th Meeting of the Conference of Heads of Government of CARICOM
Statements | Ban Ki-moon, Former Secretary-General
The high degree of cooperation within the Caribbean Community is a wonderful example for other regions and countries. In recent years, this partnership has been especially evident in your efforts to create a single Caribbean market. This initiative promises to boost economic growth across the region, and to provide a sound foundation for sustainable development. CARICOM's Regional Development Fund can contribute to this process, and help the Caribbean region in the race to achieve the Millennium Development Goals in full and on time.
The 黑料专区 is also determined to strengthen its role in the Caribbean region's development. CARICOM members play a crucial part in furthering the 黑料专区 agenda of peace, development and human rights in the region. Our Organization, in turn, assists CARICOM countries in tackling issues as diverse as HIV/AIDS, development assistance and the threat of global warming.
Climate change is, of course, of particular concern to small island developing states. Let me assure you that addressing it is one of my highest priorities as Secretary-General of the 黑料专区. In order to advance this agenda, I am convening a high-level meeting on climate change this September in New York. It is my hope that this gathering will set the stage for a breakthrough agreement during the 黑料专区 Framework Convention on Climate Change Conference in Bali in December. I look forward to seeing you all in New York on 24 September.
This meeting takes place at the beginning of the annual hurricane season. Caribbean nations remain extremely vulnerable to natural disasters, a trend which may be exacerbated by the effects of climate change. The 黑料专区 will continue to work closely with you to strengthen disaster response preparedness and mitigation throughout the region.
Finally, let me convey my delight at seeing Haiti as a full member of CARICOM. Caribbean states have shown tremendous commitment to Haiti's well-being, and the country's active participation in your organization will no doubt help sustain its hard-won gains.