The Editor, Sir:

The Caribbean has every right to face the future with confidence. For this region of only six million people has demonstrated its ability to compete at the level of ideas in a global society. Small as it is, it has produced two Nobel Prize winners, creative thinkers and artists, and some excellent writers. The integration process in the English-speaking Caribbean is a monument to the determination of its peoples and governments to overcome its early perils and trials.

Established in July 1973, the community, by dint of the intellectual endeavours of its leaders and those associated with the integration movement, has been able to overcome the threats posed to its existence and create the conditions for continued progress.

Obstacles

The body of ideas on which the survival of the community is based was formulated for the region and by the region. As the community moves forward in the new millennium, it will encounter many difficulties and challenges.

It has been criticised for a number of deficiencies, as have the EU and other economic groupings, but the fact remains it has survived and can be said to have made significant contribution, in regional and international affairs.

The creation of the CSME is now a major preoccupation of the CARICOM. The community will not be without its difficulties. Leaders have understood that poverty, underdevelopment and the adverse effects of globalisation on Caribbean society will have to be mitigated and dealt with in a way that will not undermine the capacity of the community to create wealth and become an important member of the sub-region.

I am, etc.,

CHARLIE BROWN

Computer engineer

Morant Bay, St. Thomas