Dubai: Ambassador Noem Espinoza Madrid, Secretary-General of the Association of Caribbean States (ACS), highlighted the excellent relations between the United Arab Emirates and the association, emphasizing the UAE's role as a strategic partner for the Greater Caribbean.
According to Emirates News Agency, Noem Madrid expressed that the 10th International Cooperation Conference of the Association of Caribbean States, held within the framework of the World Governments Summit, underscores the UAE's commitment as an observer valuing its partnership with the Greater Caribbean. In an interview conducted during the summit in Dubai, Madrid emphasized that the ACS is actively implementing projects where cooperation with the UAE is expected to yield effective results. These projects include sargassum management, mangrove restoration for coastal protection, and short sea shipping, all crucial for the sustainability of the Caribbean Sea and regional livelihoods.
Madrid mentioned the association's adoption of a 10-year strategic plan extending to 2035. This plan aims to develop large-scale initiatives, offering the UAE an opportunity to play a leading role in development and climate resilience across the Greater Caribbean. Joint investments in protecting the Caribbean Sea, managing sargassum, and preserving mangroves are anticipated to yield mutual benefits.
Reflecting on her participation in the World Governments Summit, Espinoza Madrid described it as a valuable platform promoting practical multilateralism and solutions to global challenges. She emphasized the summit's role in addressing pressing issues through cooperation and shared responsibility.
Discussing her priorities as Secretary-General, a position she has held for one year, Madrid focused on revitalizing the association and positioning it as a forward-looking organization. She highlighted the importance of leveraging technological advancements and innovation to deliver tangible results, particularly in protecting the Caribbean Sea.
Espinoza Madrid emphasized that the partnership between the UAE and the Association of Caribbean States showcases the UAE's potential to emerge as a key leader in the Greater Caribbean, as well as in Latin America and the Caribbean. She appreciated the UAE's interest in collaborating with the association, noting its potential to influence the region's development trajectory over the next decade.
Additionally, she highlighted the UAE's experience in renewable energy and climate initiatives, noting the Caribbean region's recurring environmental challenges, including hurricanes and natural disasters. Drawing on the UAE's expertise, she said, can help Caribbean states accelerate progress without years of trial and error.
Looking ahead, Madrid identified natural disasters as the biggest challenge for the Caribbean over the next five to 10 years, with the potential to reverse development gains. However, she emphasized that improved preparedness, early warning systems, and stronger partnerships can help minimize human loss and strengthen resilience, reaffirming the association's commitment to working closely with partners such as the UAE.