Dominica: Minister Henderson highlights power of unity at COFCOR

Roseau, Dominica: Dr Vince Henderson- the Minister of Foreign Affairs, International Business Trade, and Energy, has taken on the role of Chairman of the Council for Foreign and Community Relations (COFCOR). The 27th meeting of the Council for Foreign and Community Relations, which is taking place in Dominica, is in effect from Thursday.

During the meeting, Dr. Henderson spoke to all of the attendees, highlighting the power that comes from unity and stressing the importance of their common goals and voices as a group when COFCOR works to fulfill its mission and achieve its vision.   

Further, the minister highlighted, as the country confront urgent regional concerns including food, nutrition security, energy, and climate change, the  region has had to negotiate the changing global landscape. The action-oriented agenda reflects the complicated realities of such times.

He outlined the strengthening ties with new Middle Eastern and Qatari partners. Such positive contacts, he said, are evidence of Dominica’s steadfast dedication to seizing opportunities for the welfare of the whole region.

While speaking at the CORCOF,  minister Henderson emphasized the need of cooperation with the South, saying that they must keep up their engagement with this group of vital nations. He continued by saying that the invitation they sent to the state of Qatar to participate in the council is a reflection of their support for multilateral cooperation and common goals.

Additionally, he mentioned that during the course of the next two days, it is the duty of every foreign minister to foster an atmosphere that facilitates more chances for cooperation, coordination, and strategic alliances. And, said that their discussions will clarify a number of matters in an effort to create a community that is resilient for everyone. 

Considerably, he expressed his gratitude to each and every member state that attended the meeting, noting that their attendance in Dominica is evidence of their commitment to developing and fortifying the relationships.

Dr. Vince Henderson gave some insight into the agenda for the meeting, saying that among other things, the council would evaluate significant agreements with third countries and preparations for the 2024 CARICOM Japan friendship year. Also, he casted light on the geopolitical issues that directly impact the country’s sustainable development 

Moreover, he mentioned that COFCOR will analyze future international gatherings that are important to the development and expansion of the region. This comprises the summit of the future and the heads of state of the Commonwealth.

“The summit requires essential attention and the development of strong, unified positions,” said the Minister.

With the intention of addressing all of the present issues facing the nations, the Minister declared that he will exert all of his efforts to produce observable outcomes for the benefit of the nations and people.

Probing ahead, he discussed the expenses following Hurricane Maria. In his discussion of the costs incurred after Hurricane Maria, he  mentioned that, on occasion, building resilience can be three or four times more expensive than just building. The Minister focused out that switching from reliance on fossil fuels to renewable energy is, in reality, highly costly.

He went on to say that Dominica is launching an extremely ambitious initiative to build a new transmission infrastructure that will be resilient above ground. He spoke of the project and highlighted how expensive it is to create power distribution and connection lines.  

While concluding the address, Minister Henderson urged the public to support their fellow Palestinians and announced that Dominica would soon release a statement praising the steps taken by Norway, Spain, and Ireland to recognize a state for Palestine.