Prime Minister Drew Heads Delegation to 49th CARICOM Heads of Government Meeting in Jamaica

The 49th Meeting of the Conference of Heads of Government of the Caribbean Community (CARICOM), held in Kingston, Jamaica from July 6th to 8th, 2025, served as a crucial platform for regional leaders to address pressing issues facing the Caribbean and to chart a course towards greater cooperation, sustainability, and economic resilience. Prime Minister Hon. Dr. Terrance Drew of St. Kitts and Nevis led his nation’s delegation to the summit, underscoring the twin-island nation’s commitment to regional unity and collaborative problem-solving. This gathering of Caribbean leaders offered an opportunity to share insights, strategize on common challenges, and solidify partnerships aimed at strengthening the Caribbean community as a whole. The transition of CARICOM chairmanship to Jamaican Prime Minister Hon. Andrew Holness further symbolized the dynamic nature of regional leadership and the ongoing commitment to shared responsibility in addressing Caribbean concerns.

Prime Minister Drew’s presence at the summit reaffirmed St. Kitts and Nevis’ dedication to regional integration and its active role in shaping the future of the Caribbean. His advocacy for a more resilient and interconnected Caribbean reflects the understanding that shared challenges require collective action and that the strength of the region lies in its unity. The summit provided a forum for Prime Minister Drew to engage with other heads of government, share perspectives on critical issues, and contribute to the development of strategies for collective progress. This participation underscored the importance of regional diplomacy and the collaborative spirit necessary to navigate the complex landscape of Caribbean development.

Accompanying Prime Minister Drew was a delegation of key officials, including Ms. Naeemah Hazelle, Permanent Secretary in the Prime Minister’s Office; Mr. Javon Liburd, Press Secretary to the Prime Minister; Ms. Viera Galloway, Director in the Prime Minister’s Office; and Mr. Bjorn Hazel, Senior Foreign Service Officer. Their presence provided essential support for the Prime Minister’s engagement in high-level sessions and bilateral meetings throughout the summit. This support ensured that St. Kitts and Nevis was effectively represented in discussions and negotiations, allowing for meaningful contributions to the overall objectives of the CARICOM meeting. The delegation’s expertise and insights played a vital role in advancing St. Kitts and Nevis’ interests within the broader context of regional development.

The CARICOM summit provided a platform for leaders to delve into a wide range of critical topics impacting the Caribbean region. Discussions likely encompassed economic development strategies, climate change resilience, disaster preparedness, regional security cooperation, and the advancement of social and human development initiatives. The summit served as a forum for sharing best practices, exploring innovative solutions, and fostering a sense of shared responsibility in addressing these multifaceted challenges. The exchange of ideas and experiences among regional leaders fostered a deeper understanding of the unique circumstances facing each nation and facilitated the development of collaborative approaches to overcome common obstacles.

The assumption of the CARICOM Chairmanship by Jamaican Prime Minister Hon. Andrew Holness marked a significant transition in regional leadership. Prime Minister Holness’s new role will involve guiding the CARICOM agenda forward, facilitating dialogue and cooperation among member states, and representing the Caribbean community on the international stage. This transition highlights the importance of shared leadership within CARICOM and the commitment to rotating responsibilities among member states. Prime Minister Holness’s leadership will shape the direction of CARICOM’s efforts in addressing regional challenges and pursuing opportunities for collective growth and development.

In conclusion, the 49th CARICOM Summit in Kingston, Jamaica, served as a pivotal moment for regional collaboration and strategizing. Prime Minister Drew’s participation, along with his delegation, signified St. Kitts and Nevis’ commitment to regional integration and its active role in shaping the future of the Caribbean. The summit’s focus on addressing pressing regional issues, coupled with the transition of CARICOM Chairmanship to Prime Minister Holness, underscores the dynamic and collaborative nature of Caribbean leadership. The summit provided a platform for strengthening partnerships, sharing best practices, and charting a path towards a more resilient, sustainable, and prosperous Caribbean community. The outcomes of the summit will undoubtedly shape the region’s trajectory in the years to come, demonstrating the power of collective action and the enduring importance of regional unity.