Digital connectivity and the upcoming United Nations Climate Change Conference (COP28) were the focus of talks today between Barbados and the European Union (EU).
This discussion took place when a courtesy call was paid on Minister of Foreign Affairs and Foreign Trade, Kerrie Symmonds, by the European External Action Service (EEAS) Deputy Secretary General for Economic and Global Issues, Helena König, at the Ministry’s Culloden Road, St. Michael office.
Minister Symmonds indicated that as Barbados seeks to build capacity in a number of areas, including international business, digital transformation was critical to the process, and inquired about the EU’s Digital Alliance Programme for Latin American and Caribbean countries.
Deputy Secretary König responded saying that the programme’s framework was wide-ranging and advised the Minister to prioritise the primary areas where assistance would be needed.
In relation to COP 28, the discussion focused on the need for action in addressing climate change.
The two officials also spoke about the EU’s Global Gateway initiative; non-cooperative tax jurisdiction matters; global tax rate, special drawing rights, and the Bridgetown Initiative.
Ms. König visited Trinidad and Tobago and Dominica prior to visiting Barbados, as part of a four-day tour to CARICOM countries.
Also present at the courtesy call were: Acting Permanent Secretary, Joy-Ann Skinner; Senior Foreign Officer, Trecia King; Foreign Service Officer II, Asha Pitt; EU’s Ambassador to Barbados, Malgorzata Wasilewska; EEAS Desk Officer for Barbados Tim Sauler; EU’s Deputy Head of Mission, Fenny Steenks; and EU’s Head of Cooperation, David Mogollon.
Barbados’ formal relationship with the European Union dates back to July 1976, when the EU Delegation Office in Barbados was first established.