The Summit was an excellent opportunity for biregional partners to hold extensive discussions on fundamental issues concerning the Summit's two focal themes of Social Cohesion and Multilateralism. Without downplaying the importance of social cohesion, I would like to focus on the matter of multilateralism, as topics of vital importance were addressed for the purpose of strengthening it.

In this respect, it was unanimously agreed that multilateral approaches to global problems carry more weight now than ever before, as no country can take on the global challenge on its own. There was general agreement regarding the multidimensional challenges being faced by the modern world and that by strengthening multilateralism, this will become the nucleus of strategic partnerships between Latin American and Caribbean countries and the European Union, as they share a vision of an international order based on human rights, the rule of law and democratic principles.

The Summit yielded significant agreements for the ACS where its mandate is concerned, having recognised that regional organisations play a crucial role in the creation of a multilateral system that can face the future. According to the Summit, the process of European integration, as well as Latin American and Caribbean organisations, are examples of an effective multilateralism that depends on the equality and strength of members.

Furthermore, the Summit agreed that consolidating regionalism is one way of reinforcing multilateral action, which must favour the forces emanating from the multilateral system over countries' coalitions, in the event of conflicts. For the participants, there is no contrast between regionalism and multilateralism, since regionalism in itself, constitutes a highly advanced expression of multilateralism.

In the Declaration of Guadalajara, the Heads of State and/or Government acknowledge the Association of Caribbean States (ACS) as an important regional entity, through which co-operation can be deepened and consolidated between the European Union and the Greater Caribbean. They also recognise the progress made by the 28 Members of the ACS in consolidating a Co-operation Zone of the Greater Caribbean, through political dialogue, co-operation, consultations and coordinated actions in the areas of trade, sustainable tourism, transport and natural disasters. The Declaration further notes the efforts undertaken by the Caribbean countries assembled in the Association of Caribbean States, to develop and seek international recognition for the Caribbean Sea as an Area of Special Importance in the context of sustainable development.

Luis Carpio is the Political Adviser of the Association of Caribbean States. The views expressed are not necessarily the official views of the ACS. Feedback can be sent to mail@acs-aec.org

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1 June, 2004