In statements to the press after assuming the leadership of this political coordination body until 2025, the head of state explained that this responsibility represents a challenge for the Central American nation and should be a source of pride for the Honduran people.
The President emphasized the importance of peace for Latin America and the Caribbean and called for joint efforts to develop the region.
“In the history of our country, a president has never had the opportunity to assume two pro tempore presidencies, both that of the Central American Integration System and that of Celac,” he explained.
Castro referred to the meetings he will hold as part of the forum with representatives of the European Union and with a special envoy of Chinese President Xi Jinping.
In her statements, the first female president of Honduras mentioned the crimes committed by Israeli occupation forces against the Palestinian population in the Gaza Strip and called for an immediate ceasefire.
In his speech this morning on the opening day of the conclave, Castro pointed out that despite all the difficulties, Celac adheres to its historical tradition of continuing without war conflicts.
The differences between the countries that make up the bloc must be resolved among themselves, without interference or interference, with dialogue as a tool and always taking into account the well-being of the people, the dignitary stressed.
He added that peace means not only the absence of conflict, but also justice, memory and truth. “It is the right of children to go to school, fight poverty and end hunger, which is the worst form of violence.”
He called for the promotion of friendship, cooperation and exchanges among the nations of the region, adding that relations should be based on non-interference, sovereignty, self-determination and respect for the rights of other peoples.
Representatives of the more than 30 member states of the integration mechanism will take part in the VIII Celac Summit, which will take place this Friday in St. Vincent and the Grenadines.
lam/ybv