Annual Report of the Secretary General 2013

It was a momentous year for the Caribbean Community (CARICOM) in 2013 as we celebrated our 40 Anniversary under the theme 40 years of Integration: Celebration and Renewal .

It was a most fitting theme given that while heralding our achievements, the process of reform of the Community was a major plank of the year’s work. The commemoration was highlighted by a memorable ceremony at which the Heads of Government re-dedicated themselves to the Principles of the Treaty of Chaguaramas at the venue and on the date that the Treaty was signed.

I joined the youths, led by the CARICOM Youth Ambassadors (CYAs), in their own celebration of the milestone when they took to the twittersphere to share their views on the Community and their role in cementing regional integration. The celebratory spirit continued with the staging of CARIFESTA XI in August in Suriname. From the magical evening that was the Opening Ceremony, to the Grand Market, the Community Festivals, the Youth Village as well as on the streets and in the villages, Suriname embraced CARIFESTA and made it a great experience for all of us who attended.