Today, the Honourable Ahmed Hussen, Minister of International Development, concluded a visit to Barbados, where he represented Canada at the 48th Regular Meeting of the Conference of Heads of Government of the Caribbean Community (CARICOM) and reinforced Canada's strategic partnerships with the region.
During his visit, Minister Hussen announced investments in international assistance projects across multiple countries, totaling more than $38 million. Canada's contribution will support key initiatives to advance climate action, conserve biodiversity, promote sustainable and inclusive governance, and gender equality in Belize, Dominica, Grenada, Jamaica, Saint Lucia, Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, Haiti and Suriname. Canada's ongoing partnership with CARICOM aims to reduce global climate change effects, protect ecosystems, strengthen global stability and security, and promote gender equality, benefiting both the Caribbean and Canada.
Today's announcement also includes a $2 million top up in funding to Canada's initial commitment of $1.2 million in 2024 in response to Hurricane Beryl, as well as $7 million in humanitarian assistance funding for Haiti.
Furthermore, the Minister announced Canada's intention to contribute up to $10 million to the Technical Assistance Facility of the Caribbean Community Resilience Fund. This initiative will support and strengthen Caribbean businesses and climate-resilient infrastructure projects. Canada's support will provide expert advice, training and project preparation services to help businesses strengthen operations, scale sustainably and reduce investment risks.
Minister Hussen reiterated Canada's multifaceted partnership with CARICOM, including Canada's 2024 commitment of up to $3 million in establishing a Caribbean Future Skills Fund for the region's technical and vocational education and training to accelerate development to equip and empower youth from the Caribbean region with valuable skills and employment opportunities. Canada supports Caribbean partners in building a strong and sustainable future, resulting in increased employment opportunities, advancing economic growth, and strengthening social stability for the youth workforce.
To advance the shared priorities of democracy, gender equality, the rule of law and respect for human rights, Minister Hussen met with CARICOM leaders and representatives to reaffirm the Canada-CARICOM Strategic Partnership. He also emphasized Canada's continued engagement with allies, partners and international organizations to promote peace and security in the region, including in Haiti.
