The 22nd Meeting of Foreign Ministers of the Community of Latin American and Caribbean States (CELAC) was held today in Buenos Aires. It was chaired by Mexico and Argentina as outgoing and incoming Presidents Pro Tempore, respectively.

The inauguration was organized by the Minister of Foreign Affairs, International Trade and Worship of Argentina, Santiago Andrés Cafiero, and Mexican Foreign Secretary Marcelo Ebrard.

In his remarks, Secretary Ebrard gave a report on Mexico’s achievements as President Pro Tempore for the 2020-2021 term. He highlighted the Community's revitalization as the most important forum for political dialogue and agreement in the region; the creation of a regional COVID-19 strategy; and the establishment of the Latin American and Caribbean Space Agency (Alce).

Subsequently, the members elected Argentina as President Pro Tempore of the group for 2022 by consensus. Foreign Minister Cafiero presented the proposed 2022 Work Plan, which has 15 points: 1. Inclusive post-Covid-19 economic recovery; 2. A Latin American and Caribbean health strategy; 3. Space cooperation; 4. Science, technology and innovation for social inclusion; 5. Comprehensive disaster risk management; 6. Education; 7. Strengthening CELAC's agenda and as an institution to fight corruption; 8. Food security;  9. A dialogue with extra-regional partners; 10. The integration of Latin American and Caribbean infrastructure; 11. Environmental cooperation; 12. To develop and improve CELAC's operations; 13. To improve the situation and condition of women in the member countries; 14. Digital transformation and cooperation; and 15. Culture.

The representatives of the Member States expressed their support for Argentina in its negotiations with the International Monetary Fund to reach an agreement that allows the country to continue its economic recovery, improve its social situation, and refinance its debt with the organization.

They also expressed their concern about the impact of unsustainable debt burdens and the early withdrawal of public policies on the recovery of both the region's economies and the well-being of its people.

During the meeting, the foreign ministers of Argentina and Mexico signed agreements with ECLAC regarding the initial contributions to create the CELAC Fund for Climate Adaptation and Comprehensive Disaster Response, which total 3.7 million dollars.

The ministerial meeting was closed by Argentinian President Alberto Fernández, who expressed his appreciation for being appointed CELAC President Pro Tempore for 2022.

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