PUNTA CANA – Curaçao Minister Charles Cooper has called for stronger telecommunications integration across the Caribbean, arguing that differences in national regulations should not become unnecessary barriers to regional connectivity.
Cooper made the remarks during the Liberty Caribbean Ministerial Leadership Dialogue & Networking Breakfast on the second day of CANTO 2026.
The gathering brought together regional leaders to discuss some of the most significant challenges facing the Caribbean telecommunications sector.
During the session, participants took part in an interactive survey examining the main obstacles to further development of telecommunications in the region.
One issue that received considerable attention was the difference between regulatory frameworks across Caribbean countries. These differences can complicate regional cooperation and make greater interconnectivity more difficult to achieve.
Cooper acknowledged the challenge but emphasized the importance of approaching telecommunications from a broader Caribbean perspective.
“I do not see myself only as a citizen of Curaçao, but also as a citizen of the Caribbean,” Cooper said.
From that perspective, the minister called for improved interconnectivity between Caribbean countries and telecommunications services that are more accessible to people throughout the region.
According to Cooper, differences in legislation and regulation should not create unnecessary obstacles between Caribbean markets.
Greater coordination between governments, regulators and the telecommunications industry, he said, could contribute to creating a Caribbean that is better connected, more accessible and better prepared for future technological developments.
The discussion comes as connectivity, artificial intelligence, cybersecurity and digital transformation feature prominently on the agenda at CANTO 2026.
Cooper is representing Curaçao at the conference as part of the government’s efforts to strengthen regional cooperation and explore opportunities to modernize the island’s telecommunications and digital infrastructure.