The Cabinet Office advised today that the Premier, the Hon. David Burt is representing Bermuda at the 48th Regular Meeting of CARICOM Heads of Government under the Chairmanship of Hon. Mia Mottley, SC, MP, Prime Minister of Barbados.
This bi-annual regional meeting is taking place in Barbados from February 19 – 21, 2025. The Premier is accompanied by MP Chris Famous.
Topics to be discussed at this week’s CARICOM Heads of Government Meeting include:
- Food and Nutrition Security
- Climate Change and Climate Finance
- Digital Resilience
- External Relations & CARICOM Single Market and Economy (CSME)
The Premier said, “The Heads of Government meeting is an opportunity to address common, regional issues and to demonstrate those areas in which Bermuda’s leadership can be modelled by our Caricom partners. I expect there will be a discussion regarding the new US Administration and the impact of global tariffs on the cost of imports. It is important that Bermuda is represented on this international stage as we learn and share our common experiences in navigating the global challenges impacting us all.
Premier Burt also addressed the topic of full membership in CARICOM.
The Premier continued, “At the polls on Tuesday, some voters asked about Bermuda’s relationship with CARICOM and ongoing discussions regarding full membership. I would like to reiterate that though the Government is committed to seeking deeper ties with CARICOM; similar to other CARICOM countries, there is no desire for Bermuda to adopt freedom of movement for CARICOM nationals. Nonetheless, the Government’s election platform committed to expanding regional trade in an effort to source more affordable food imports. I look forward to providing an update on the discussions with CARICOM upon my return.”
The Premier returns to Bermuda on Saturday, February 22, and the Hon. Kim N. Wilson is Acting Premier and Minister of Finance.
The Cabinet Office confirmed that the Swearing-In of new Ministers is set for Tuesday, February 25th. With the retirement from Office of the former Deputy Premier and Former Minister of Public Works, Minister Michael Weeks is Acting Minister of Public Works, and Minister Kim Wilson is Acting Minister of Home Affairs.