PR – The Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Trade & Export Development informs that the Caribbean Community (CARICOM), will be celebrating its 50th Anniversary on Tuesday 4th July 2023 under the theme ‘50 Years Strong: A Solid Foundation to Build on’.
The Treaty of Chaguaramas was signed by representatives from Barbados, Guyana, Jamaica and Trinidad and Tobago on July 4th, 1973 in Chaguaramas, Trinidad and Tobago establishing the Caribbean Community and Caribbean Common Market. It came into effect on August 1st, 1973 and Grenada became a member on May 1st, 1974.
Today, CARICOM is an amalgamation of fifteen (15) member states and five (5) associate members. It is the oldest surviving integration movement in the developing world with the task of promoting and supporting a unified Caribbean Community that is inclusive, resilient, peaceful and aspires to achieve economic, social and cultural prosperity.
Grenada and other member States can find solace in the strides taken by the Community thus far especially in the field of Education which is an important foundation for the development and growth of any nation. This foundation has produced many West Indian scholars, academics and intellectuals who have contributed significantly to our Caribbean region and by extension, the world, in various capacities.
Sir Meredith Alister McIntyre, OCC, a highly celebrated Grenadian academic, was instrumental in the movement for integration as Secretary General of CARICOM from 1974-1977, positioning the Caribbean region on the world stage.
In recognition of this milestone, a series of activities has been planned to commemorate the 50th Anniversary throughout the State of Grenada including a Road Relay which is expected to take place at 4:00 pm on Sunday July 2nd, 2023 from the Kirani James Athletic Stadium Car Park to Morne Rouge Playing Field, Grand Anse, St. George, and a Health Walk from the Ministerial Complex, Botanical Gardens, Tanteen, St. George to Camerhogne Park, Grand Anse, St. George, culminating with a cultural extravaganza from 2:00 pm – 7:00 pm on Monday 3rd July, 2023.
Grenada will celebrate CARICOM’s 50th Anniversary with a National Holiday on Tuesday July 4th, 2023.
Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Trade and Export Development
