Prime Minister Drew Leads 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), a pivotal event in the regional calendar, convened in Montego Bay, Jamaica, on July 6, 2025. The summit, which officially commenced with an opening ceremony attended by regional leaders and their delegations, set the stage for two days of intensive discussions and strategic planning. Among the attendees was the Prime Minister of St. Kitts and Nevis, the Honourable Dr. Terrance Drew, accompanied by a delegation comprising key government officials, including Foreign Minister Rt. Hon. Dr. Denzil Douglas, Permanent Secretary in the Prime Minister’s Office Ms. Naeemah Hazelle, Press Secretary Mr. Javon Liburd, Director Ms. Viera Galloway, and Senior Foreign Service Officer Mr. Bjorn Hazel. The presence of these high-ranking officials underscored the importance of the summit and St. Kitts and Nevis’ commitment to regional collaboration.

The summit’s agenda focused on a spectrum of critical issues facing the Caribbean community. High on the list were pressing concerns such as climate resilience, a matter of existential importance for island nations increasingly vulnerable to the impacts of climate change. Regional security, another key area of deliberation, encompassed discussions on collaborative strategies to combat transnational crime and maintain stability within the region. Food and energy sovereignty, recognizing the need for greater self-reliance and sustainability, were also central themes. Furthermore, the summit addressed the imperative of economic growth, the transformative potential of digital technologies, and the advancement of the CARICOM Single Market and Economy (CSME), a vital mechanism for regional economic integration.

The 49th CARICOM summit held special significance as it marked the commencement of the Chairmanship of the Caribbean Community by the Most Honourable Andrew Holness, Prime Minister of Jamaica. This transition of leadership represented an opportunity to reaffirm CARICOM’s commitment to collective action and to chart a course for the organization’s future endeavors. The gathering of regional leaders provided a platform for sharing perspectives, fostering consensus, and forging a unified approach to addressing the complex challenges confronting the Caribbean.

The participation of St. Kitts and Nevis in the summit served as a powerful testament to the Federation’s unwavering commitment to regional integration. It underscored the nation’s recognition of the importance of collaborative efforts in tackling shared challenges and advancing common goals. The presence of Prime Minister Drew and his delegation signified the active role St. Kitts and Nevis plays in shaping regional policies and contributing to the collective voice of the Caribbean on the global stage. The Federation’s engagement in CARICOM reflects a deep understanding of the interconnectedness of regional destinies and the belief that collective action is essential for navigating an increasingly complex and interconnected world.

The Government of St. Kitts and Nevis has consistently demonstrated its steadfast support for the ideals and mechanisms of CARICOM. This commitment stems from a recognition that regional cooperation is not merely desirable but essential for addressing the multifaceted challenges facing the Caribbean. As the region grapples with issues ranging from climate change to economic vulnerability, the need for unified action and shared solutions becomes increasingly apparent. The government’s active participation in CARICOM reflects a belief in the power of collective action and the potential for regional collaboration to drive positive change.

The global landscape presents a myriad of challenges that demand innovative approaches and decisive leadership. From the existential threat of climate change to the economic disruptions caused by global events, Caribbean nations face unique vulnerabilities. St. Kitts and Nevis, along with its CARICOM partners, recognizes that these challenges cannot be effectively addressed in isolation. The government’s commitment to CARICOM reflects a belief that regional cooperation is crucial for fostering resilience, promoting sustainable development, and amplifying the voice of Caribbean nations on the global stage. The 49th CARICOM summit provided a valuable platform for reinforcing these principles and forging a path forward for a stronger, more integrated, and resilient Caribbean community.