Caracas, December 14, 2024 – The Prime Minister of Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, Ralph Gonsalves, praised the initiatives launched 20 years ago by Commanders Hugo Chávez and Fidel Castro, which led to the establishment of what is now the Bolivarian Alliance for the Peoples of Our America–Peoples’ Trade Treaty (ALBA-TCP).

“ALBA is the product of the genius of our peoples,” he stated during the 24th Summit of Heads of State and Government.

“These countries share a history set by slavery, colonization, and imperialism. We are united by geography, united by history, and, in the crucible of that history, we have transformed into a commitment to life, unity, and production,” he added.

Gonsalves emphasized that the integration promoted by ALBA-TCP, the ALBA Bank, Petrocaribe, and the cooperation of Cuba and Venezuela have significantly contributed to the economic development of Saint Vincent and the Grenadines. He highlighted the increase in per capita income and referenced financing mechanisms for fuel acquisition and support during natural disasters.

The Prime Minister also criticized the sanctions imposed by the United States on Cuba, Nicaragua, and Venezuela, questioning the rationale behind designating these nations as threats to U.S. national security.

“How can any reasonable person make such a claim?” he asked, challenging the lack of evidence for such accusations. Additionally, he denounced foreign interference in the electoral processes of the region and reaffirmed that the peoples of these countries should make their own decisions.