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 challenges, foster cooperation, and chart a path towards a more sustainable and economically resilient Caribbean. Prime Minister of St. Kitts and Nevis, Hon. Dr. Terrance Drew, led a national delegation to the summit, underscoring his nation’s commitment to regional unity and collaborative problem-solving. The summit coincided with the transfer of CARICOM chairmanship to Jamaican Prime Minister Hon. Andrew Holness, adding another layer of significance to the proceedings.

The St. Kitts and Nevis delegation, accompanying Prime Minister Drew, comprised key government officials with expertise in various areas, reflecting the multi-faceted nature of the summit’s agenda. Senior Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs, Right Honourable Dr. Denzil Douglas, brought his extensive experience in international relations to bear on the discussions. Naeemah Hazelle, Permanent Secretary in the Prime Minister’s Office, provided administrative and logistical support, while Javon Liburd, Press Secretary to the Prime Minister, managed communications and media relations. Viera Galloway, Director in the Prime Minister’s Office, contributed her expertise in policy and strategic planning, and Bjorn Hazel, Senior Foreign Service Officer, provided his knowledge of regional affairs and diplomatic protocols. This diverse team ensured that Prime Minister Drew had the necessary support to effectively engage in the summit’s high-level sessions and bilateral meetings.

Prime Minister Drew’s presence at the CARICOM summit underscored his consistent advocacy for a more integrated and resilient Caribbean. He views regional cooperation as not just a desirable objective, but a fundamental necessity for addressing the complex challenges facing the region, including climate change, economic vulnerabilities, and social disparities. His participation served as a reaffirmation of St. Kitts and Nevis’ dedication to working collaboratively with its Caribbean neighbors to achieve shared goals and strengthen regional bonds.

The CARICOM summit provided a forum for in-depth discussions on several key areas of concern for the region. These included economic diversification and growth, climate change adaptation and mitigation, regional security, and the advancement of the CARICOM Single Market and Economy (CSME). Leaders explored strategies to strengthen regional institutions, enhance cooperation on trade and investment, and promote sustainable development initiatives. The summit also served as an opportunity to review progress made on previous commitments and set new priorities for the coming year.

Prime Minister Drew’s active participation in the various sessions and bilateral engagements allowed him to advocate for specific initiatives and policies that would benefit St. Kitts and Nevis, as well as the wider Caribbean community. He engaged in productive dialogue with fellow Heads of Government, sharing insights and perspectives on critical issues. These interactions facilitated the exchange of best practices and fostered a sense of shared responsibility for the region’s future.

The 49th CARICOM Summit concluded with a renewed commitment to regional integration, cooperation, and collective action. Leaders reaffirmed their dedication to working together to address common challenges and seize opportunities for sustainable development. The summit underscored the importance of unity and solidarity in navigating the complex global landscape and building a more prosperous and resilient Caribbean for future generations. The transfer of chairmanship to Jamaica symbolized the ongoing dynamic of leadership within CARICOM and the shared responsibility for advancing the regional agenda. Prime Minister Drew’s active participation in the summit signaled St. Kitts and Nevis’ steadfast commitment to playing a constructive role in shaping the future of the Caribbean community.