ACS and Colombia meet to discuss Climate and Regional Challenges

Port of Spain, Trinidad and Tobago – January 16, 2025 – Her Excellency Noemi Espinoza Madrid, Secretary-General of the Association of Caribbean States (ACS), hosted a meeting with His Excellency William Bush, Ambassador of Colombia to Trinidad and Tobago, and a delegation from the Colombian islands of San Andrés and Old Providence on January 16, 2025. The meeting provided an opportunity to discuss topics that pose regional challenges including climate change and environmental sustainability.

The Colombian delegation included representatives from the Raizal Diaspora, the Indigenous National Raizal Authority, The Archipelago Movement for Ethnic Native Self-Determination, AMEN-SD, the Foundation for the Islands of Old Providence and Santa Catalina - FIOPSC, the Association of Artisanal Fishermen and Agriculturists of San Andres and Old Providence - ASOPACFA, the Fishermen's Federation of Old Providence and Santa Catalina, and the Old Providence Permanent Civic Ombudsman Movement.

The discussions were centered on potential strategies for addressing climate change risks and advancing environmental recovery. Delegates from the islands highlighted the importance of sustainable resource management, including improving solid waste disposal and protecting marine ecosystems. Secretary-General Espinoza reaffirmed the ACS's commitment to promoting disaster risk reduction and sustainable development across the Greater Caribbean.

The delegation shared their ongoing efforts to strengthen resilience and recovery following the devastating 2020 hurricane. These initiatives align with the ACS’s objectives of enhancing regional preparedness and capacity to withstand natural disasters, particularly in vulnerable coastal and island communities.

Additionally, the need of strengthening intra-Caribbean dialogue and connections was highlighted during the meeting. Delegates expressed the need for closer collaboration within the Greater Caribbean, aiming to build sustained and meaningful partnerships that reflect the region’s shared heritage and goals.