Prime Minister Philippe Pierre delivers a keynote speech at the Africa Investment Risk and Compliance Summit

Prime Minister Philippe Pierre delivered the keynote speech at the Africa Investment Risk and Compliance (AIRC) Summit 2024. The summit was hosted by the Emerging Business Intelligence and Innovation Group (EBII Group) and the theme was “Sustainable Resource Extraction in a Changing Climate: Compliance, Strategy and Innovation”.

The AIRC Summit 2024 brings together industry experts, policymakers, political leaders, investors and other relevant stakeholders. The Summit provides an important platform to discuss innovative solutions and build strategic partnerships to address global challenges related to investment and trade in Africa. Participants include key figures from various fields who are committed to promoting sustainable development and economic growth.

In his speech, Prime Minister Pierre stressed the deep historical and cultural ties between Africa and the Caribbean, and emphasized the common challenges and opportunities facing the two regions. He outlined a vision of solidarity, resilience and mutual support, advocating for greater cooperation to address climate change and promote sustainable development.

Here are some key messages from the Prime Minister’s keynote speech:

1. Prime Minister Pierre stressed the Caribbean’s strong demographic and cultural ties with Africa, calling it “Africa’s firstborn son.” He quoted reggae legend Bob Marley and Nobel Prize winner Derek Walcott to emphasize the long-standing desire for unity and mutual recognition.

2. As CARICOM climate change chief, the Prime Minister stressed the severe impacts of climate change on Africa and the Caribbean, and called for climate justice, stressing that Small Island Developing States pollute the least but suffer the most. He urged for significant financial support for adaptation and mitigation, and criticised the slow implementation of the $100 billion climate finance commitment made at COP28.

3. Prime Minister Pierre stressed the importance of harnessing Africa’s rich resources, including mineral wealth, arable land and young population, to achieve the Sustainable Development Goals.

4. Prime Minister Pierre presented Saint Lucia’s innovative “Youth Economy” initiative, which works to empower young people through entrepreneurship, education and skills development, while highlighting the potential of Africa’s young population to drive economic growth and innovation.

5. Prime Minister Pierre also advocated for stronger ties between Africa and the Caribbean, arguing that the Caribbean could serve as Africa’s gateway to the Americas. He called for improved transportation and logistical links between the two regions, as well as easier travel between the two to promote greater economic and cultural exchanges.

6. Prime Minister Pierre highlighted the role of the Fourth Industrial Revolution and called for investments in science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) education to prepare African youth for leadership in fields ranging from renewable energy to infrastructure development.
Prime Minister Pierre’s speech stressed the importance of solidarity, resilience and strategic cooperation between Africa and the Caribbean. The Summit remains an important platform to discuss innovative solutions and build partnerships to address global challenges.

Provided by OPM