Minister Barry Padarath Welcomes Martinique As CARICOM Associate Member
Minister of Public Utilities Barry Padarath has welcomed Martinique’s formal accession as the seventh Associate Member of CARICOM, describing the move as a major step forward for regional integration.
Speaking during Bastille Day celebrations on Tuesday evening, the Minister said the French-Caribbean territory’s admission reflects a growing commitment to cooperation among Caribbean nations and territories.
He highlighted the significance of the development, noting that Martinique’s acceptance into CARICOM represents a victory for regional collaboration and partnership.
« On the topic of Martinique, permit me to offer congratulations, as on 16th June 2026, our French-Caribbean neighbour formally became the 7th Associate Member of the Caribbean Community, CARICOM, just a week prior. This is indeed a victory, as I ask you to put your hands together to welcome Martinique as our French-Caribbean neighbour, having been formally inducted as an associate member state of the CARICOM community. »
Minister Padarath added that the milestone reflects a broader commitment to regional cooperation and noted that T&T’s delegation, led by Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar, witnessed the historic development during the recent 51st Regular Meeting of CARICOM in St Lucia.
He outlined the opportunities expected to flow from deeper engagement with CARICOM’s Associate Members.
« Let me assure you that at the conclusion of our meetings, our leaders agreed on a wide-ranging regional agenda aimed at strengthening cooperation to address shared challenges. We therefore look forward to the opportunities for collaboration and the bridges which will be built with our associated members in areas such as trade, energy, disaster management, education and yes, football. »
