Ottawa, Canada – (July 9, 2025) — The CARICOM Caucus of Heads of Mission in Ottawa commemorated the 52nd anniversary of the establishment of the Caribbean Community with a lunch time reception at the National Arts Centre on Friday, June 27, 2025. The event was attended by Members of Parliament, the diplomatic and consular corps, representatives from civil society, the private sector, academia, (including students), and the Caribbean diaspora in Ottawa.

Chairman of the organizing committee, H.E. Samuel Berridge, Saint Kitts and Nevis’ High Commissioner to Canada, welcomed the guests and highlighted the role of the CARICOM Caucus in advancing the regional agenda by engaging with functionaries at the federal, provincial and municipal levels of government, and by building effective partnerships with academic institutions, the business community, civil society and diaspora groups.

The message from CARICOM Secretary General, Dr. Carla Barnett was delivered by H.E. Marsha Coor Lobban, High Commissioner for Jamaica to Canada, who reflected on the achievements of the Community since its founding in 1973. She proclaimed that after fifty-two years on, CARICOM stands as a testament to what small states can achieve through solidarity and shared purpose. Despite economic, environmental, and social challenges, CARICOM remains a beacon of regionalism.

Ms. Sylvie Bedard, Regional Director for Latin America and the Caribbean, at Global Affairs Canada who spoke on behalf of the Government of Canada, highlighted the importance of continued collaboration in the face of climate change, global economic volatility, and geopolitical shifts. She highlighted Canada’s pride in the long and cherished friendship shared with the Caribbean Community.

High Commissioner Alfred Grey of the Bahamas expressed a vote of thanks to all who had contributed to making the event a success, including the Canadian Bank Note Company, the National Arts Centre, the organizing committee, and the specially invited guests. The event culminated with a delicious array of Caribbean-inspired fare, steelpan music and promotional videos from CARICOM countries represented at the reception.