CARICOM expresses sympathy to cyclone ravaged Vanuatu

The Caribbean Community (CARICOM) has expressed its deep sympathy to the Government and people of Vanuatu over the loss of life and property and displacement of thousands of citizens due to the catastrophic effects of Cyclone Pam.

 In a Message of Condolence to Prime Minister Joe Natuman, CARICOM Secretary-General Ambassador Irwin LaRocque said CARICOM Member States can readily associate and empathise with Vanuatu over the devastation that is caused by these climatic events and stand in solidarity with all NiVans at this time of distress.  Disasters such as these underscore the vulnerability of countries like ours and brings to the fore the reality of climate change, he noted.

Cyclone Pam hit Vanuatu late on March 13, packing winds of up to 200 miles an hour; leaving several deaths while causing widespread damage.

“On behalf of the Caribbean Community, I extend deepest condolences to the families of those who lost their lives and wish a speedy recovery to the injured.  I am confident that the Government and People of Vanuatu will summon the necessary strength and resilience to overcome this calamity and redouble their efforts to continue their path to sustainable development,” Ambassador LaRocque stated.

See full message:  Message of Condolence – Vanuatu