CARICOM regrets passing of former Foreign Minister who helped to advance Cuba-CARICOM relations

The Caribbean Community (CARICOM) has expressed deep regret at the passing of Cuba’s former Foreign Affairs Minister HE Ricardo Alarcón, who played a constructive role in advancing Cuba’s relationship with CARICOM.  Mr   Alarcón died recently in Havana at the age of 84.

CARICOM Secretary-General Dr Carla Barnett sent a message of condolence to Cuba’s President HE Miguel Díaz-Canel:

“Excellency

The Caribbean Community (CARICOM) expresses its deep regret at the passing of the former Foreign Minister of Cuba, His Excellency Ricardo Alarcón.

Mr. Alarcón also served his country in various capacities both as a diplomat, including as Permanent Representative to the United Nations, and domestically as President of the National Assembly.

Throughout his years of service he played a constructive role in advancing Cuba’s relations with CARICOM.  Mr. Alarcón participated in the negotiations which led to the establishment of diplomatic relations between Cuba and the first four CARICOM nations to do so: Barbados, Guyana, Jamaica, and Trinidad and Tobago in 1972.

CARICOM extends its condolences to the family of Mr Alarcón and the Government and People of Cuba on the loss of this great servant of his country and true friend of the Caribbean Community.”