Moussa Batraki, the Secretary-General of the Organisation of African, Caribbean and Pacific States (OACPS), presented an in-depth report at the 120th Session of the OACPS Council of Ministers, outlining key activities, initiatives, and reforms undertaken since the previous session. His report underscores the Organisation’s strategic priorities, emphasizing essential aspects such as reform, modernization, financial sustainability, improved governance, and the enhancement of both intra-OACPS and external partnerships.
Against the backdrop of global instability, Batraki stressed the urgent need for the OACPS to prove its value through clear, efficient, and decisive actions that support its Member States. In his opening remarks, Peter Shanel Agovaka, the President of the OACPS Council of Ministers and Foreign Minister of the Solomon Islands, called on members to envision a future for the Organisation rooted in political resolve and strategic clarity. He highlighted the importance of unity and solidarity as the OACPS’s core strengths, especially when faced with unpredictable global challenges.
As part of the session, participants paused for a moment of silence to honor the victims of recent natural disasters, notably those impacted by Hurricane Melissa in Jamaica and Cyclone Senyar in Indonesia. The OACPS conveyed its solidarity with the affected communities and reaffirmed its support for the nations involved.
In a significant side meeting, Batraki engaged with Diene Keita, United Nations Under-Secretary-General and Executive Director of UNFPA, who attended as a special guest. Their discussions revolved around a mutual commitment to a people-centered development approach, focusing particularly on the empowerment of women and youth. Both leaders recognized the critical importance of fostering structured partnerships aligned with the Samoa Agreement and the 2030 Agenda to advance essential development priorities within OACPS nations.
Batraki praised Keita on her recent appointment and highlighted the necessity of enhanced multilateral cooperation to support the shared objectives of the OACPS renewal agenda. This collaborative spirit offers a positive outlook for the future, showcasing the potential for resilience and growth even in the face of ongoing global challenges.