Belize City, June 25, 2025 – The Caribbean Community Center for Climate Change, known as 5C, based in Belmopan, celebrated its 20th anniversary with an awards gala, where individuals and institutions that have shaped the institution's history were recognized.
Cuban Ambassador María Caridad Balaguer Labrada had the honor of receiving the award given to the Cuban Institute of Meteorology (INSMET) from Dr. Colin Young, Executive Director of 5C, in "recognition of their strong collaboration and joint efforts to advance 5C's mission of strengthening climate resilience in the Caribbean."
Cooperation between ISMET and 5C dates back more than 18 years, and among the areas of joint cooperation is the participation in climate modeling in the Caribbean, which focuses on understanding and projecting the impacts of climate change in the region. Models help assess regional vulnerabilities and inform adaptation strategies.
The ceremony was presided over by Prime Minister John Briceño, who was accompanied by the Prime Minister of Saint Lucia, Philip J. Pierre, in his capacity as Chair of the CARICOM Quasi-Cabinet on Sustainable Development. Also present were representatives from several Caribbean islands and regional agencies and institutions, government authorities, members of the diplomatic corps, as well as founding and current members of the 5C.
Over the past 20 years, the Caribbean Community Climate Change Centre has provided valuable scientific guidance, fostered regional collaboration, and mobilized crucial resources to enhance the climate resilience of the Caribbean region. (EmbacubaBelize)