Chairman of CARICOM, Dominica’s Hon Prime Minister, Dr. Roosevelt Skerrit wants CARICOM Heads of Government to consider the potential impact of Britain’s exit from the European Union.
Hon Skerrit made the remark as he addressed the official opening of the 37thmeeting of CARICOM Heads of Government in Guyana on Monday, July 4th.
“At a time when the rest of the world is moving towards regional integration in order to carve out an economic space in the global marketplace and balance the might of the emerging superpowers, Britain has chosen to retreat to insular nationalism. Already the political, economic and social fallout of this decision to go it alone is causing considerable concern within Britain, Europe and the rest of the world.
“This conference gives us a wonderful opportunity to seriously consider the effect that Britain’s exit from the European Union will have on CARICOM to demonstrate leadership by showing the way forward.
“After all, we have a had a long and deep relationship with the United Kingdom and Britain remains one of our most important trading partners, the largest source market for our primary industry and a vital source of assistance on legal and financial matters.”
A referendum – a vote in which everyone of voting age can take part – was held on Thursday 23rd June, to decide whether the UK should leave or remain in the European Union.
Fifty-two percent of voters chose to leave the EU.