Thread

President Delcy Rodríguez welcomed me warmly to Caracas, and from the outset our focus was on our people and the possibilities we can create for them. The work we have agreed can strengthen Barbados’ energy and food security, create new openings for our farmers, fishers and businesses, build stronger tourism and trade links, and improve the movement of goods. It can also open doors for Barbadians through scholarships, language training and exchanges in music, energy and fisheries. We have already seen the human value of this friendship. When the earthquakes struck Venezuela in June, Barbados answered with rescue workers, medical teams, humanitarian supplies and a field hospital in Guarenas. Agreements such as these must be felt at home in the choices our young people have, the markets our producers can reach and the greater security of every Barbadian family. That is how we build a stronger Barbados and remain the kind of neighbour that shows up when it matters.