Prime Minister Drew Arrives in Cuba for State Visit

The Prime Minister of St. Kitts and Nevis, the Honourable Dr. Terrance Drew, embarked on a two-day official state visit to Cuba on May 21, 2025, marking a significant step in strengthening the bilateral ties between the two Caribbean nations. The visit, steeped in diplomatic protocol and underscored by a shared history of cooperation, aimed to address key regional issues, explore collaborative opportunities, and reaffirm the deep-rooted friendship between the two countries. Upon arrival, Prime Minister Drew and his accompanying delegation received a full military welcome, signifying the importance Cuba placed on the visit and the mutual respect between the two nations. The Cuban government’s high-level representation, including Vice Minister of Foreign Affairs Josefina Vidal Ferreiro and Ambassador to St. Kitts and Nevis David Rivero Pérez, further emphasized the commitment to fostering stronger ties.

The initial discussions between Prime Minister Drew and Cuban officials focused on pressing regional matters of mutual concern. These included an exploration of renewable energy possibilities, a critical area of collaboration given the global push towards sustainable energy solutions and the Caribbean’s vulnerability to climate change. The dialogue also encompassed broader geopolitical developments, acknowledging the complex international landscape and the need for regional solidarity. The exchange allowed both nations to align perspectives and strategize on shared approaches to navigating global challenges and safeguarding their respective interests. Furthermore, the talks delved into specific areas of mutual interest, creating a platform for identifying concrete opportunities for cooperation and development.

A significant highlight of the visit was the emphasis on the welfare of St. Kitts and Nevis students pursuing their education in Cuba. The discussions centered on the students’ academic progress, the challenges they face while studying abroad, and their overall well-being. Prime Minister Drew’s personal connection to this matter, having himself been a medical student in Cuba, added a layer of depth and understanding to the conversation. His firsthand experience provided valuable insights into the transformative impact of Cuban education on Caribbean professionals, highlighting the long-standing tradition of educational exchange between the two nations. This focus on student welfare underscored the human dimension of the bilateral relationship, emphasizing not just government-to-government interaction but also people-to-people connections.

Prime Minister Drew’s delegation comprised a diverse group of officials and advisors, reflecting the multifaceted nature of the visit. Included were Mrs. Diani Prince-Drew, Cabinet Secretary Dr. Marcus Natta, Ambassador His Excellency Kenneth Douglas, H.E. Verna Mills, Ambassador of St. Kitts and Nevis to the Republic of Cuba, Press Secretary Mr. Javon Liburd, Medical Specialist Dr. Joylette Woodley, and Advisor to the Prime Minister Mr. Austin Edinborough. The presence of such a high-level delegation demonstrated St. Kitts and Nevis’ commitment to the bilateral relationship and its desire to engage in substantive discussions across a range of areas, from diplomatic relations to technical cooperation.

This diplomatic engagement served as a crucial platform for reaffirming the enduring friendship between St. Kitts and Nevis and Cuba. It provided an opportunity to not only address immediate concerns but also to lay the groundwork for future collaboration. The visit underscored the importance of regional partnerships in addressing shared challenges and pursuing common development objectives. The two countries reaffirmed their commitment to working together to promote stability, prosperity, and sustainable development within the Caribbean region.

The visit, concluding on May 23, 2025, symbolized a renewed commitment to collaboration and a shared vision for the future of the two nations. It signified a strengthening of ties based on mutual respect, understanding, and a desire for collaborative progress. This diplomatic engagement laid the foundation for future cooperative ventures and cemented the enduring bond between St. Kitts and Nevis and Cuba. The outcomes of the visit are expected to contribute significantly to the advancement of shared development goals and reinforce the spirit of cooperation between the two Caribbean nations.