Terrelonge Represents Jamaica at OACPS Summit in Equatorial Guinea

Minister of State in the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Foreign Trade, Alando Terrelonge, headed Jamaica's delegation to the 11th summit of the Organization of African, Caribbean and Pacific States (OACPS). The summit took place in Malabo, Equatorial Guinea, from March 27 to 29.

Terrelonge represented Prime Minister Andrew Holness at the event, which convened representatives from 79 member states. The overarching theme of the summit was 'A Transformed and Renewed OACPS in a Changing World'. Discussions focused on advancing South-South cooperation, sustainable development, climate action, and navigating evolving geopolitical and economic challenges.

During the summit, Minister Terrelonge emphasized the urgent need for global climate action. He also participated as a panelist at the Small Island Developing States (SIDS) forum, where he underscored the unique vulnerabilities faced by island nations.

Terrelonge highlighted the significant impact of Hurricane Melissa, which struck Jamaica in October 2025. The damage resulting from the hurricane was estimated at over US$12 billion, representing approximately 56.7 per cent of Jamaica's gross domestic product. "

For Small Island Developing States, climate change is not a scientific or academic discussion; it is an existential threat that disrupts livelihoods, damages critical infrastructure, affects food and water security, and undermines economic growth - particularly in climate-sensitive sectors on which our economy is heavily reliant, such as tourism, agriculture and fisheries. In extreme cases, it also costs lives. It is therefore imperative that global action matches the scale and urgency of the crisis," he stated.

Jamaica reaffirmed its call for equitable and accessible climate financing, as well as stronger implementation of existing global climate commitments. The nation also advocated for formal recognition of the special circumstances of SIDS within international frameworks.

Terrelonge further reiterated Jamaica's support for reforms to strengthen the OACPS's governance, operational efficiency, and financial accountability. He noted that a more responsive organization is crucial to effectively address the needs of its member states. He emphasized the OACPS's role in fostering multilateral cooperation and promoting sustainable development.

The summit underscored the importance of coordinated engagement among ACP States regarding climate finance and sustainable development, both of which are priorities for Jamaica in ongoing multilateral negotiations. Terrelonge affirmed that Jamaica will continue to advocate for decisive action to support SIDS on international platforms.

Established through the Georgetown Treaty in 1975, the OACPS aims to promote sustainable development and poverty reduction among its member states, while also enhancing their integration into the global economy. The summit reinforced these core objectives and charted a course for a renewed and transformed organization.