Caricom’s participation at the Shanghai Expo 2010 held in China two weeks ago was a wonderful opportunity to showcase what member states had to offer and provide a way of strengthening ties between Caricom and China, President Bharrat Jagdeo said.
According to a release from the Caricom Secretariat, Jagdeo said, “China is the future and through our alliances with China we too become a part of that future; a future of scientific and technological excellence and cross-cultural dialogue which will be pivotal to our human development.”

Further Jagdeo, who attended the expo said it provided another channel for expanding opportunities in tourism, agriculture and other industries, as well as for stimulating investment flows and movements of capital and people.

He added that “increased collaboration with China will deepen our understanding of this unique, wonderful country and people.  The ever-increasing contacts between our countries allow us to move forward towards our common aspirations.”

He pointed out that while China had sustained high rates of economic growth and rapid modernisation, it continues to champion the cause of the developing world especially vulnerable countries.  Emphasis was also placed on the country’s role and strategies in combating climate change.

The exposition was held under the theme “Better City, Better Life” and saw representation by 16 Caricom member states and attendance by several dignitaries.

The President was particularly pleased at the participation of Haiti and said it was “remarkable as it is inspiring” in the wake of the devastating earthquake which struck the country earlier this year.

The Caricom National Honour Day celebrations were held at the Green Hall in the Expo Centre in Shanghai and concluded in the evening with a grand cultural performance featuring acts from Trinidad and Tobago, Grenada, Barbados, Haiti and Jamaica.