BASSETERRE, St Kitts and Nevis (CMC) — Caricom leaders say they are encouraged by statements made by visiting United States Secretary of State Marco Rubio regarding improved relations with the North American country.

Rubio addressed the regional leaders for 10 minutes at their 50th regular Caricom summit on Wednesday.

Antigua and Barbuda Prime Minister Gaston Browne said he was encouraged by Rubio’s brief statement.

“At one point we were very concerned what the message would have been, but I have to say it was a very positive message, in terms of helping to secure the future of Caribbean countries, working very closely with Caribbean countries, recognising the fact that we are linked by geography, we are linked by our people,” he said.

“I sense that the statement that he made, though brief, would have signalled a level of commitment to enhance relationship between the United States and Caricom and that itself is encouraging.”

Dominica’s Prime Minister Roosevelt Skerrit said he, too, was encouraged by the brief encounter the leaders had with Rubio.

“It’s important that the dialogue can continue. There are a number of hot topic issues that we’ll have to discuss and address and find mutual approaches to them,” Skerrit said. “But I think it is important that we note the positive aspect of his presence in the Caribbean.”

He said the fact that Rubio could make the time to come personally “is a clear intention on the part of the United States to engage, to listen, and to hear our views and concerns”.

Haiti’s Prime Minister Alix Didier Fils Aime told reporters that he, too, was encouraged by the deliberations.

“It was very good. He just had a few messages saying he wanted to reinforce the long-term relationship that has been going on between the United States and the Caribbean and we are going to strengthen our relationship for the mutual benefit of Caricom nations and the United States,” he added.