ORLANDO – The nations of the Caribbean, while not equal to the United States in size, power and influence need not play the role of supplicant but should adopt a unified approach to engaging the new Administration of President Barack Obama in order to ensure positive results.
This was the message delivered to participants in the fourth annual Caribbean American Business Expo and Conference by veteran United States diplomat Ambassador Harriet Elam Thomas. Ambassador Thomas was the guest of honor and keynote speaker at a plenary luncheon of the conference.
Speaking on the subject “Strategies for Engaging the new Administration of President Barack Obama” the ambassador identified four pillars- a unified approach, respect for indigenous talent, strategic planning and the clear identification of mutual interests-upon which Caribbean nations and the Diaspora should build their efforts for successfully engaging the new administration,
Ambasador Thomas
Ambasador Thomas pointed out that “the new face of America has the opportunity and the ability to engage adversaries and to bridge divisions” and that with the election of a uniquely multicultural president “now is the chance for the US to improve its global image and from there its security.”
Against this background, the ambassador said, there is scope for the Caribbean, as neighbors, partners and friends of the United States, to work with the new administration “to meet the common challenges we face.”
