WASHINGTON, DC – The Permanent Representative of Belize Lynn Raymond Young on Friday assumed the chair of the Permanent Council of the Organisation of American States (OAS).
Ambassador Young will hold the chair until December 31, 2024.
“As chair, I will prioritize efforts in eradicating poverty and fostering inclusive economic growth,” said Young during the handing-over ceremony at OAS’ headquarters in Washington.
“We must focus on strategies that empower the most vulnerable, enhance access to education and health care, promote decent work and foster resilient economies,” added the ambassador, stating that, “Belize remains deeply committed to the core principles that defines the OAS: democracy, human rights, security and integral development.
“These principles are not just the foundation of our organization but the very pillars on which our collective futures rests,” Young continued. “As chair, I will work tirelessly to make sure that our deliberations and actions are guided by these values.”
Outgoing Chair and Permanent Representative of Barbados Victor Fernandes said: “I am delighted this morning to hand the gavel to my colleague from Belize.
“I am sure he will do an admirable job during his tenure,” he said. “I thank you for the opportunity to serve as chair of the Permanent Council in this organization.”
The OAS said the vice chair for the October-December term will be exercised by the Permanent Representative of the United States, Francisco Mora.
The chair of the Permanent Council rotates every three months among the member states of the organization, in alphabetical order, the OAS said.
The vice chair also rotates every three months but in reverse alphabetical order.