CELAC Summit: UN Chief Warns of Climate Crisis, Calls for Collaboration and Sustainability

Kingstown, Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, March 1, 2024

The 8th Summit of the Community of Latin American and Caribbean States (CELAC) commenced today in Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, focusing on the region's most urgent challenges.

Tribute to Resilience and Unity

UN Secretary-General António Guterres began his address by praising the resilience of Saint Vincent and the Grenadines' people in the wake of the devastating La Soufrière volcanic eruption.

"We saw neighbours helping neighbours – and the region coming together for support. We need that spirit more than ever, today and everywhere," the Secretary-General declared.

Call for Peace and Security

Emphasizing peace and security, Guterres praised the region's progress in conflict resolution. He highlighted the Colombian peace process and the Guyana-Venezuela joint declaration:

"The peace process in Colombia has made significant strides, with invaluable contributions from CELAC countries...the joint declaration for dialogue and peace between Guyana and Venezuela... is another example of the region’s commitment to seek peaceful solutions."

Urgent Action on Sustainable Development

Addressing the fight against poverty and hunger, the Secretary-General stressed, "Millions of people in the region are facing poverty and hunger... we need solidarity for sustainable development."

Climate Emergency and Environmental Conservation

Guterres warned of the climate crisis, saying, "Extreme events are hitting with increasing ferocity... All countries must commit to new economy-wide nationally determined contributions by 2025 that align with limiting global temperature rise to 1.5 degrees Celsius."

Conclusion: A Call to Bold Action

The Secretary-General concluded with an impassioned appeal:

"Leaders have a responsibility... to invest in social cohesion... to guarantee women’s full participation and leadership... and to amplify young voices."

As the Summit progresses, Guterres' call for action will frame discussions on collaborative solutions, working towards the betterment of the Latin American and Caribbean region.