UAE explores Caribbean trade partnership at regional summit

The UAE is exploring closer economic ties with Caribbean nations after taking part as a special guest at a major regional foreign ministers’ meeting in Suriname.

Omar Shehadeh, Envoy of the UAE Minister of Foreign Affairs to the Caribbean and Pacific States, attended the Caribbean Community’s Council for Foreign and Community Relations meeting in Paramaribo, where discussions focused on trade, investment, renewable energy and climate cooperation.

During the summit, the UAE expressed interest in pursuing a broader economic partnership agreement with CARICOM, the regional bloc representing Caribbean nations.

In response, Caribbean foreign ministers agreed to begin exploratory discussions on a possible trade and investment framework with the UAE.

The talks also focused on climate resilience, energy transition and water security, with the UAE highlighting opportunities for cooperation ahead of the UN Water Conference, which it will co-host with Senegal later this year.

The meeting took place against a backdrop of global economic uncertainty and growing concerns around international trade and regional stability.

CARICOM ministers also reaffirmed support for the UAE following recent drone and missile attacks targeting the country, condemning attacks on civilian and critical infrastructure.

On the sidelines of the summit, Shehadeh held meetings with senior officials from Suriname, Jamaica, Saint Lucia, Grenada, Antigua and Barbuda, Saint Kitts and Nevis and The Bahamas.

The UAE says the visit reflects growing diplomatic and economic engagement between the Emirates and Caribbean nations.