Message of Condolence from the Secretary-General of the Caribbean Community, Ambassador Irwin LaRocque to the Prime Minister, Honourable Joe Natuman and the Government and People of the Republic of Vanuatu, following the devastating effects of Cyclone Pam:

The Caribbean Community (CARICOM) expresses its deep sympathy to the Government and people of Vanuatu over the loss of life and property and displacement of thousands of citizens due to the catastrophic effects of Cyclone Pam.

Our Member States can readily associate and empathise with Vanuatu over the devastation that is caused by these climatic events and stand in solidarity with all NiVans at this time of distress.  Disasters such as these underscore the vulnerability of countries like ours and brings to the fore the reality of climate change.

CARICOM is acutely aware of the heavy toll that loss of life takes on the people and communities of Vanuatu, particularly in these tragic circumstances.

The scale of the human tragedy and the cost of rebuilding shattered lives and livelihoods cannot be calculated.  Apart from the urgent need for food, fresh water and shelter, the task of reconstructing communities, the economy and infrastructure is one that will require immediate and long-term assistance from the international community.

Moreover, as Small Island Developing States (SIDS), the destruction and setbacks that can befall infrastructural and developmental work and progress through the overwhelming scale of natural disasters such as these is of real concern, especially given the resource constraints and the limited options available for post-disaster reconstruction, rehabilitation and diversification.

On behalf of the Caribbean Community, I extend deepest condolences to the families of those who lost their lives and wish a speedy recovery to the injured.  I am confident that the Government and People of Vanuatu will summon the necessary strength and resilience to overcome this calamity and redouble their efforts to continue their path to sustainable development.