Daily Current Affairs : 9-November-2024

The second meeting of the India-CARICOM Joint Commission was held virtually with the aim of reviewing and enhancing the growing relationship between India and the Caribbean Community (CARICOM). This meeting was an important step in strengthening the collaboration in various fields between India and CARICOM nations.

What is CARICOM?

CARICOM, or the Caribbean Community, is an organization established in 1973 with the signing of the Treaty of Chaguaramas. It brings together 15 full members and several associate members from the Caribbean region. The aim of CARICOM is to foster economic integration, cooperation, and a unified foreign policy approach among its member countries.

Key Objectives of CARICOM:

  • Economic Integration: Promote cooperation and integration among member states to enhance economic growth.
  • Equitable Benefits: Ensure all member nations benefit fairly from the integration process.
  • Foreign Policy Coordination: Develop a common approach to foreign relations and international affairs.

CARICOM Member Countries:

  • Full Members: Antigua and Barbuda, The Bahamas, Barbados, Belize, Dominica, Grenada, Guyana, Haiti, Jamaica, Montserrat, Saint Kitts and Nevis, Saint Lucia, Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, Suriname, Trinidad and Tobago.
  • Associate Members: Anguilla, Bermuda, British Virgin Islands, Cayman Islands, and Turks and Caicos Islands.

CARICOM’s Secretariat is based in Georgetown, Guyana, and the Chairmanship rotates every six months among the heads of member states.

India-CARICOM Relations

India’s growing relationship with CARICOM is important for both sides. The virtual meeting of the Joint Commission allowed leaders to discuss various areas of cooperation, including trade, investment, education, and healthcare. India has long supported CARICOM nations, offering technical and financial assistance, and sharing knowledge in sectors such as information technology and sustainable development.

The partnership also provides opportunities for both India and CARICOM countries to expand trade, cultural exchanges, and collaboration in global forums.

Important Points:

  • The second India-CARICOM Joint Commission meeting was held virtually to enhance bilateral relations.
  • CARICOM was established in 1973 by the Treaty of Chaguaramas to promote economic integration and cooperation.
  • CARICOM’s Key Objectives:
    • Economic integration among member states.
    • Ensuring equitable benefits from the integration process.
    • Coordinating foreign policy and international relations.
  • CARICOM Member Countries:
    • 15 full members: Antigua and Barbuda, The Bahamas, Barbados, Belize, Dominica, Grenada, Guyana, Haiti, Jamaica, Montserrat, Saint Kitts and Nevis, Saint Lucia, Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, Suriname, Trinidad and Tobago.
    • 4 associate members: Anguilla, Bermuda, British Virgin Islands, Cayman Islands, and Turks and Caicos Islands.
  • CARICOM Secretariat is located in Georgetown, Guyana.
  • Chairmanship of CARICOM rotates every six months among the heads of member states.
  • India and CARICOM share cooperation in trade, education, healthcare, technology, and sustainable development.
  • The partnership strengthens both parties’ positions on global trade, cultural exchange, and international forums.
  • India’s support to CARICOM nations includes technical and financial assistance in key sectors.

Why In News

The second meeting of the India-CARICOM Joint Commission was held virtually to review and strengthen the multifaceted relationship between India and CARICOM, with a focus on deepening cooperation across key areas such as trade, healthcare, education, and sustainable development.

MCQs about The India-CARICOM Joint Commission

  1. When was CARICOM established?
    A. 1970
    B. 1973
    C. 1980
    D. 1990
    Correct Answer: B. 1973
    Explanation: CARICOM was established in 1973 with the signing of the Treaty of Chaguaramas, aiming to promote economic integration and cooperation among member states.
  2. What is the primary aim of CARICOM?
    A. To promote military cooperation
    B. To foster economic integration and cooperation
    C. To unite the Caribbean under one government
    D. To promote cultural exchange only
    Correct Answer: B. To foster economic integration and cooperation
    Explanation: The main objective of CARICOM is to promote economic integration, cooperation, and the fair sharing of benefits among its member states, as well as coordinating foreign policy.
  3. How often does the Chairmanship of CARICOM rotate?
    A. Every year
    B. Every two years
    C. Every five years
    D. Every six months
    Correct Answer: D. Every six months
    Explanation: The Chairmanship of CARICOM rotates every six months among the Heads of Member States, ensuring shared leadership across the organization.
  4. Which of the following is NOT a full member of CARICOM?
    A. Jamaica
    B. Barbados
    C. Suriname
    D. Bermuda
    Correct Answer: D. Bermuda
    Explanation: Bermuda is an associate member of CARICOM, not a full member. CARICOM consists of 15 full members and 4 associate members.

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