CARICOM, Palestine mark milestone in diplomatic relations

 “We strongly urge an end to the illegal settlement of the occupied Palestinian Territories, a clear violation of international law. The Community’s repeated message is clear: there must be an unconditional and sustained ceasefire, protection of civilian lives, and unimpeded humanitarian aid in Gaza and the Occupied Palestinian Territories.”

CARICOM Secretary-General Dr Carla Barnett

On Tuesday, 2 July, the Caribbean Community (CARICOM) and the State of Palestine marked a significant milestone in their diplomatic relations with the accreditation of Palestine's first Ambassador to CARICOM.

The virtual ceremony, anchored at the CARICOM Secretariat headquarters in Georgetown, Guyana, saw CARICOM Secretary-General, Dr. Carla Barnett, accepting the Letter of Credence from Her Excellency Dr. Linda Sobeh Ali.

Describing the occasion as “a truly historic and profoundly symbolic moment,” Dr. Barnett said that it was also a “clear affirmation of the solidarity” between the Community and Palestine.

“Your accreditation marks a truly historic and profoundly symbolic moment. It reflects our shared interest in strengthening diplomatic ties through an enduring commitment to the principles of international law, justice, and peace,” she stated.

Addressing the core challenges affecting the State of Palestine, Dr. Barnett reaffirmed CARICOM's firm commitment to a cease-fire in Gaza and its commitment to advocate for an end to the occupation of the State of Palestine through a negotiated solution, in accordance with United Nations (UN) resolutions and international humanitarian law.

 “We strongly urge an end to the illegal settlement of the occupied Palestinian Territories, a clear violation of international law. The Community’s repeated message is clear: there must be an unconditional and sustained ceasefire, protection of civilian lives, and unimpeded humanitarian aid in Gaza and the Occupied Palestinian Territories,” the CARICOM Secretary-General said.

The immense suffering endured by women and children in Gaza has been a focal point of concern for CARICOM Dr. Barnett said, referencing reports from UN agencies that reveal a stark picture of countless killed, thousands injured, and nearly a million displaced.

In an urgent tone of concern about the dire situation in Gaza, she said, “The catastrophic levels of hunger, severe malnutrition, and preventable diseases due to dire shortages of food, clean water, and medical supplies are unacceptable.”

She also condemned the destruction of essential infrastructure, including hospitals and schools, which has created a humanitarian catastrophe that disproportionately impacts the most vulnerable.

Reaffirming CARICOM’s solidarity with Palestine, Dr. Barnett stated that the Community will continue to advocate for urgent and decisive action to alleviate the suffering of the Palestinian people.

The Secretary-General highlighted efforts in multilateral forums such as the United Nations to champion Palestinian self-determination. This she said was particularly evident during Guyana's presidency of the UN Security Council in June 2025, when CARICOM maximised opportunities to underscore the importance of international collaboration in advancing Palestinian rights.

“CARICOM remains firm in our conviction that the international community must act with urgency and unity to ensure that the legitimate aspirations of the Palestinian people are recognized and upheld, including the right to self-determination, citizen security, and human dignity,” Dr. Barnett stated.

She also expressed profound appreciation for the solidarity that the State of Palestine has extended to the CARICOM Region in times of natural disaster, reinforcing the bonds between them.