Bermuda’s Minister of Home Affairs represented the island at an opening ceremony for a conference that marks Caricom’s golden anniversary.

Alexa Lightbourne was one of several dignitaries at the event that kicked off the group’s annual Heads of Government meeting in St Kitts & Nevis.

The ceremony, which took place yesterday, featured remarks from Andrew Holness, the Prime Minister of Jamaica and outgoing Caricom chairman, and incoming chairman Terrance Drew, the Prime Minister of St Kitts & Nevis.

Ms Lightbourne said: “Caricom’s 50th regular meeting is a powerful reminder of the value of regional unity and collaboration.

“Bermuda is very proud to stand with our Caribbean partners as we reflect on the progress made over five decades and work together to address the shared challenges and opportunities that lie ahead.”

This year’s ceremony operated under the theme Beyond Words: Action Today for a Thriving, Sustainable Caricom.

Discussions at the meeting will involve regional security, climate resilience, economic development, and trade and investment, as well as health co-operation and the advancement of functional co-operation across the Caribbean Community.

The Heads of Government gathering will run until Friday, with David Burt, the Premier, also scheduled to attend after his visit to San Francisco to attend Nearcon 2026 in San Francisco.