CARICOM, Peru advancing stronger diplomatic and cooperation ties

(CARICOM Secretariat, Turkeyen, Greater Georgetown, Guyana) - The Caribbean Community (CARICOM) and Peru are strengthening their diplomatic and cooperation ties, with Secretary-General Dr. Carla Barnett noting that this relationship could serve as a prime example of South-South cooperation.

A significant step in solidifying their relationship was recorded on Wednesday 19 March, when Dr Barnett accredited a new Extraordinary Ambassador of Peru to CARICOM, Her Excellency Claudia Giuliana Betalleluz Otiura.

During the accreditation ceremony, Dr. Barnett noted that CARICOM and Peru already have strong bilateral engagements in multilateral fora such as the Community of Latin American and Caribbean States (CELAC) and the Organization of American States (OAS).

She noted the potential for even closer collaboration in areas like disaster risk management and fisheries.

Ambassador Betalleluz conveyed the President of Peru’s firm commitment to strengthen relations with CARICOM and its Member States. She stated that enhancing relations with CARICOM is a priority for Peru's foreign policy, with plans to deepen political dialogue and develop cooperation programmes that address the specific needs of the Community and its Member States.

To demonstrate this commitment, she said Peru is reopening its embassy in Jamaica and opening a new embassy in Guyana. Peru's Minister of Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Elmer Schialer, also met with CARICOM ambassadors in Washington D.C. in December 2024 to discuss Peru's short-term goals and learn about the areas of cooperation on which CARICOM Member States wish to focus.

Ambassador Betalleluz said Peru is preparing a renewed Cooperation Program for 2025-2027, focusing on education, disaster management, and other areas.

A Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) is being prepared to establish a structured framework for consultation and cooperation between CARICOM and Peru.