CARICOM Welcomes French Guiana as MemberFrench Guiana has taken a new step in strengthening its Caribbean ties after formally joining the Caribbean Community as the organisation’s eighth associate member during regional leaders’ discussions in St. Lucia. He said French Guiana’s associate membership represents “a meaningful act of regional inclusion” and reflects CARICOM’s goal of strengthening partnerships throughout the region. Pierre also thanked CARICOM Secretary General Dr. Carla Barnett, the CARICOM Secretariat, the Government of France and representatives from French Guiana for their roles in advancing the membership process. Associate membership allows Caribbean territories that are not independent states to participate in CARICOM activities and cooperate on areas of shared interest. French Guiana’s admission increases CARICOM’s associate membership to 8, expanding the bloc’s presence and engagement across the wider Caribbean region.