(CARICOM Secretariat, Turkeyen, Greater Georgetown, Guyana) Caribbean and European Union (EU) diplomats, government officials and representatives from regional organizations, the private sector and non-governmental organizations met to discuss the parameters for an enhanced Caribbean–EU partnership at a seminar in Barbados, 4-5 March 2010. The ultimate goal was to launch the process of drafting a new joint EU-Caribbean strategy.

A new Caribbean-EU strategy is considered necessary in light of new developments within both regions and at the global level. These developments include economic and financial crises, challenges related to climate change, crime and security and new geo-political interests and alignments.

Together the participants in the seminar worked on determining priorities and areas of strategic importance for both the Caribbean and the EU, looking at the principles for a joint Caribbean-EU strategy and the deepening of dialogue to ensure inclusiveness of consultation in developing the joint strategy. The programme also involved an assessment of Caribbean-EU relations, including strengths, weaknesses and achievements.

The seminar was a collaborative effort involving the CARIFORUM Directorate of the CARICOM Secretariat, the European Commission and the Spanish EU Presidency. The sessions were co-chaired by Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Trade, Barbados and Spain’s Ambassador to Jamaica, His Excellency Jesus Silva.

It is anticipated that an outline of the strategy will be presented at the upcoming European Union/Latin America and the Caribbean, (EU/LAC) Summit due to take place in Madrid on 17 May 2010.

CONTACT: salas@csmeunit.org