COFAP to review timelines of CSME framework

The Caribbean Community (CARICOM) Council for Finance and Planning (COFAP) has been mandated by regional leaders to review the elements and timetable of the CARICOM Single Market and Economy (CSME), with a view to advising on the feasibility timelines for completion of the framework.

This directive was issued during the recently concluded 22nd Inter-Sessional Meeting of the Conference of CARICOM Heads in Grand Anse, Grenada, where the matter was discussed.

A communiqué from the meeting said regional leaders reiterated the importance of the CSME as a platform for the organisation of production and the development of competitiveness within the region. This is in order to develop globally competitive industries to exploit opportunities in markets outside CARICOM, which require co-operation, collective action and the pooling of resources.

During the course of the discussions, the communiqué informed, the Heads acknowledged the efforts of member states to continue the CSME’s development, despite difficulties faced consequent on severe economic challenges.

The communiqué further advised that, in mandating an “urgent” meeting of Ministers with responsibility for Information and Broadcasting, the Heads of Government requested that they facilitate consultation towards an “overarching strategy” by the end of the second quarter of 2011, “for public education and information.”

On another matter discussed, the communiqué said regional leaders re-affirmed their commitment to sustained negotiations in order to conclude a “mutually satisfactory” Trade and Development Agreement with Canada, with the anticipation of “considerable progress” in the next round of negotiations, scheduled to be held in Canada within the next few months.

CONTACT: DOUGLAS McINTOSH