NDP leader attends meeting of IDU in London

Leader of the New Democratic Party (NDP), Dr Godwin Friday, was among leaders and officials of parties within the Caribbean Democratic Union (CDU), to attend a recent forum of the International Democratic Union (IDU) in London, England. The June 19-21 forum was in celebration of the 40th anniversary of the IDU-1983-2003- which was observed under the theme “Four Decades Connecting Freedom”.

A release from the IDU said the gathering brought together centre-right political party leaders from all regions of the world.

The war in Ukraine was a central feature of the panel discussions on global security at the forum as well as economic policy, trade, and environmental governance. Special guests at the IDU forum included UK Foreign Secretary, James Cleverly; Conservative Party chairman, Greg Hands- Member of Parliament; and former Secretary of State in the USA, Michael R. Pompeo.

CDU Leaders also held bilateral meetings with UK Members of Parliament during the visit. This included talks with Dame Maria Miller Member of Parliament, on achievements of the Conservatives WFD Programme in the Caribbean towards increasing women and youth political participation.

“The CDU has a critical role to play in strengthening democracy in our region. It is important to highlight the threat of authoritarian regimes that seek to undermine the fundamental rights and freedoms that our people enjoy,” Friday said at the forum.

“ The IDU forum is also a critical space to network with other world leaders, to gain deeper insight into the challenges facing us as a global community and to engage in important discussions on development policy.”

The Leader of the Opposition in St Lucia and leader of the United Workers Party Allen Chastanet, who was also in attendance at the forum stated that: “Events such as the IDU forum are important to championing the cause of democracy and bring together thought leaders from around the world to discuss the pressing challenges that confront us as a global community including climate change financing and building resilience.

“We continue to use these spaces to highlight the various issues facing our Caribbean region and the need for greater cooperation and support.”

The CDU delegation also included Secretary General of the CDU, Nick Francis; and Chair of the CYDU, Kendron Christopher.