Prime Minister Leads Delegation to 48th CARICOM Meeting

Basseterre, St. Kitts, February 18, 2025 (PMO)

Basseterre, St. Kitts, February 18, 2025 (PMO) – Prime Minister of St. Kitts and Nevis, Hon. Dr. Terrance Drew, is currently in Barbados, leading a high-level delegation to the Forty-Eighth Regular Meeting of the Conference of Heads of Government of the Caribbean Community (CARICOM), which is taking place from February 18 to 21, 2025.

Accompanying the Prime Minister are Honourable The Rt. Dr. Denzil Douglas, Minister of Foreign Affairs; Ms. Naeemah Hazelle, Permanent Secretary in the Prime Minister’s Office; His Excellency Larry Vaughan, St. Kitts and Nevis’ Ambassador to the Caribbean Community (CARICOM); Mr. Javon Liburd, Press Secretary; and Mr. Bjorn Hazel, Senior Foreign Service Officer.

Meeting Objectives

This important regional meeting brings together CARICOM leaders to discuss pressing issues affecting the Caribbean, with a focus on economic resilience, climate change, regional security, and the deepening of integration under the CARICOM Single Market and Economy (CSME). The discussions will also center on food security, geopolitical developments, and key regional and international partnerships aimed at strengthening economic and social growth within CARICOM. Additionally, leaders will deliberate on issues such as free movement across the region, crime and security, and the ongoing situation in Haiti.

International Engagements

The meeting features high-level engagements with international leaders, including H.E. António Guterres, Secretary-General of the United Nations, and H.E. Ursula von der Leyen, President of the European Commission. These discussions will reinforce global partnerships while addressing the region’s collective challenges and opportunities.

Key Highlights

A major highlight of the conference will be the signing of agreements related to Martinique’s accession as an Associate Member of CARICOM, further expanding the regional bloc’s reach and influence.

Prime Minister’s Participation

Prime Minister Dr. Drew’s participation in the CARICOM Heads of Government Meeting underscores his commitment to advancing the interests of St. Kitts and Nevis within the regional and international arena. As St. Kitts and Nevis continues its journey toward becoming a Sustainable Island State, the government remains dedicated to working alongside regional partners to build a more resilient and prosperous Caribbean.

Conclusion

The 48th CARICOM Meeting is an important opportunity for regional leaders to come together and address the pressing issues facing the Caribbean. The Prime Minister’s participation in this meeting demonstrates St. Kitts and Nevis’ commitment to regional cooperation and collective progress.

FAQs

* What is the purpose of the 48th CARICOM Meeting?
The meeting aims to discuss pressing issues affecting the Caribbean, including economic resilience, climate change, regional security, and the deepening of integration under the CARICOM Single Market and Economy (CSME).
* Who is attending the meeting?
The meeting will be attended by CARICOM leaders, including Prime Minister Dr. Terrance Drew, as well as international leaders such as H.E. António Guterres, Secretary-General of the United Nations, and H.E. Ursula von der Leyen, President of the European Commission.
* What are the key highlights of the meeting?
The meeting will feature the signing of agreements related to Martinique’s accession as an Associate Member of CARICOM, as well as high-level engagements with international leaders.