ST. LUCIA — Premier David Burt attended the 51st Regular Meeting of the Conference of Heads of Government of CARICOM in St. Lucia on July 8, 2026. He stated that regional leaders examined initiatives to reduce food import costs, strengthen food security and sustainability, and expand agricultural production throughout CARICOM. "There were extensive discussions on agriculture, food production and reducing food import bills," Burt said. "The cost of living is the number one issue not only in Bermuda but across the Caribbean."

Minister of Home Affairs Alexa Lightbourne accompanied Burt at the meeting. She noted that the regional discussions aligned with Bermuda's Affordable Bermuda Agenda. "For Bermuda, food security and affordability are kitchen table issues," Lightbourne said. "They shape what families can put in the cupboard and what is left in the budget at the end of the month."

Burt stated that Bermuda has significant economic expertise to share and stands to gain from stronger regional partnerships. He said the Government has proposed a White Paper concerning its potential full membership in CARICOM. "The White Paper will set out the Government's position and provide the public with a detailed explanation of the opportunities and considerations associated with full membership," Burt said.

Lightbourne stated that the Government is advancing Bermuda's engagement with CARICOM to serve national interests. She added that the forthcoming White Paper would present the opportunities, considerations, and progress in an understandable format for the public.