The United Progressive Party (UPP) has expressed firm support for the Caribbean Community’s (CARICOM) long-standing stance that the Caribbean region must remain a Zone of Peace, emphasizing the importance of diplomacy and non-aggression in regional and international affairs.
In a statement issued Wednesday, the Party underscored that it “cannot support or condone any action that might compromise that position,” reaffirming its belief that peace and stability are essential to the region’s prosperity and sovereignty.
The UPP acknowledged Antigua and Barbuda’s historically strong ties with both the United States of America and the Bolivarian Republic of Venezuela, citing the mutual respect and cooperation that have characterized these relationships over the years. The Party also referenced the “helpful initiatives” pursued with Venezuela during its own period in government, noting that they contributed to regional solidarity and development.
“We remain committed to promoting and sustaining the peace that has long existed between Antigua and Barbuda, our Caribbean neighbours, and all our friends and allies further afield,” the statement read.
The UPP’s declaration comes as regional leaders continue to advocate for maintaining the Caribbean as a space free from military confrontation or geopolitical conflict a principle deeply rooted in CARICOM’s collective foreign policy vision.
“Let there be peace,” the Party concluded, echoing CARICOM’s shared commitment to diplomacy, mutual respect, and peaceful coexistence.
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Wait!!! UPP still around? Seriously I had forgotten about their existence. At least you all support something
Respect to the UPP for echoing CARICOM’s stance. Small nations like ours must unite in peace, not division.
I hate Juju Bee. YES we still around
Good stance, but Antigua needs to balance peace with preparedness. Being a ‘Zone of Peace’ doesn’t mean we should be defenseless. Security still matters.