COFCOR THIRD MEETING IN TRINIDAD AND TOBAGO

The Council for Foreign and Community Relations (COFCOR), which determines relations pursued by the Caribbean Community (CARICOM) is expected to look into the development of a global strategy in Foreign Policy Coordination, as the Region seeks to strengthen its position in international fora.

This is likely to be one of the main agenda items to be put before the CARICOM Ministers responsible for Foreign Affairs when they meet in Trinidad and Tobago from 8-9 May, 2000 at the Third Meeting of COFCOR. Additionally, they are likely to review the mechanism of joint commissions and similar arrangements in the Community's conduct of relations with third countries, as well as consider a strategy for closer cooperation towards the building of the Caribbean Community.

The Community Organ will address critical Community issues as part of a packed two-day agenda which also include deliberations on a joint Community office to UNESCO, and relations with South Africa. Issues before the Rio Group are expected to come up for discussion by the Region's Ministerial representatives of Member States at this Forum which is also likely to follow-up on the European/Latin America Caribbean Summit.

The Ministerial Meeting will be preceded by a two-day officials meeting to be convened later this week in Port-of-Spain, starting 4 May, 2000.