Basterre St Kitts & Nevis –February 16, 2024
The 74th Meeting of the Organisation of Eastern Caribbean States (OECS) Authority took place in St. Kitts and Nevis from February 14th to 15th, 2024, chaired by the Hon. Dr. Terrance Drew, Prime Minister of St. Kitts and Nevis.
Heads of Governments from OECS member states convened to address various critical issues affecting the region. A notable highlight of the meeting was a significant pronouncement by Hon. Serge Letchimy, President of the Executive Council of the Territorial Authority of Martinique, expressing Martinique’s desire for deeper collaboration with the OECS.
President Letchimy emphasized the potential for increased cooperation between Martinique and OECS member states in areas such as trade, education, health, and agriculture. The statement underscored Martinique’s commitment to regional integration and its willingness to contribute to sustainable development efforts within the OECS.
In response, the OECS Authority issued a declaration affirming support for Martinique’s commitment to regional integration and autonomy. The declaration acknowledged the shared history and geography between Martinique and OECS member states and emphasized the importance of evolving capacities for action in various areas.
The meeting also addressed key regional integration matters, including updates on the Free Movement of Persons Regime, the OECS Development Strategy, and initiatives to strengthen Competition Policy Enforcement and Consumer Protection.
Additionally, discussions centered on the establishment of Centers of Excellence in Health across the region, efforts to enhance food security through the OECS Food and Agriculture Systems Transformation (FAST) Strategy, and collaboration with the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia to deepen ties and explore new opportunities.
The OECS Authority adopted the revised Eastern Caribbean Regional Oceans Policy (ECROP) and underscored the importance of executing initiatives to secure member states’ access to marine resources and support the transition to a blue economy region.
The meeting concluded with plans for future engagements, including the 7th Sitting of the OECS Assembly and initiatives to strengthen regional integration in energy, particularly focusing on geothermal energy within the OECS Sustainable Energy Framework.
Attendees included Heads of Governments and Representatives from OECS member states, along with other delegates and commissioners. The 75th Meeting of the OECS Authority is scheduled to take place on June 18th, 2024, in Saint Lucia, where the Chairmanship will be assumed by the Prime Minister of Saint Lucia, Hon. Philip J. Pierre.
For news tips, releases, or event coverage requests, individuals are encouraged to contact Nate Media at natemediaec@gmail.com.
Stay informed with Nate Media for updates on regional developments and initiatives impacting the OECS.
