Prime Minister Drew to Head Official Delegation to Cuba

I. A Reaffirmation of Enduring Friendship: St. Kitts and Nevis and Cuba Embark on a New Chapter of Collaboration

The forthcoming state visit of Prime Minister Dr. Terrance Drew to the Republic of Cuba marks a significant milestone in the enduring diplomatic relationship between the two nations. This high-level engagement, scheduled for May 22nd and 23rd, 2025, underscores the deep-rooted ties that have bound St. Kitts and Nevis and Cuba together for decades. The visit serves as a testament to the shared history, mutual respect, and unwavering commitment to collaborative development that characterize this special partnership. Prime Minister Drew’s delegation, comprised of key government officials and advisors, will engage in discussions with their Cuban counterparts, aiming to further solidify the existing bonds and explore new avenues of cooperation for the mutual benefit of both nations.

II. Healthcare Cooperation: A Cornerstone of Bilateral Relations

Healthcare collaboration has long been a cornerstone of the relationship between St. Kitts and Nevis and Cuba. Cuba’s renowned healthcare system, characterized by its focus on preventative medicine and universal access, has served as a model for many developing nations. The two countries have a history of exchanging medical expertise, with Cuban doctors providing vital services in St. Kitts and Nevis, and Kittitian and Nevisian medical professionals benefiting from training opportunities in Cuba. This state visit will provide a platform to further strengthen this vital partnership, exploring avenues for expanding medical exchanges, sharing best practices, and collaborating on research and development in areas of mutual interest. The inclusion of Dr. Joylette Woodley, a medical specialist, in the delegation underscores the importance of healthcare cooperation in the bilateral agenda.

III. Educational Exchange: Empowering Future Generations

Education plays a critical role in the development of any nation, and the partnership between St. Kitts and Nevis and Cuba recognizes this crucial element. Over the years, numerous students from St. Kitts and Nevis have pursued higher education in Cuba, benefiting from the country’s renowned universities and specialized programs. This state visit will provide an opportunity to reaffirm the commitment to educational exchange, exploring possibilities for expanding scholarship programs, fostering academic collaborations, and promoting cultural understanding between the two nations. The visit aims to strengthen people-to-people ties and create a pipeline of skilled professionals who will contribute to the development of both St. Kitts and Nevis and Cuba.

IV. Regional Solidarity: A Shared Vision for Caribbean Development

St. Kitts and Nevis and Cuba share a common vision for regional development and integration within the Caribbean community. Both nations are active members of regional organizations, such as CARICOM, and advocate for greater cooperation and collaboration among Caribbean states. This state visit will provide a platform for high-level discussions on regional issues of mutual concern, including sustainable development, climate change resilience, and economic diversification. The two nations will explore opportunities to strengthen regional partnerships and work together to address the challenges facing the Caribbean.

V. Deepening Diplomatic Ties: Building a Stronger Foundation for Future Collaboration

The state visit of Prime Minister Drew and his delegation to Cuba is a powerful symbol of the enduring friendship and commitment to deepening bilateral relations between the two nations. The visit aims to build a stronger foundation for future collaboration, fostering deeper understanding and trust between the two governments. The presence of high-ranking officials, including the Cabinet Secretary and the Ambassador, demonstrates the importance that St. Kitts and Nevis places on this relationship. The discussions held during the visit will pave the way for concrete actions and initiatives that will bring tangible benefits to the people of both countries.

VI. Advancing Shared Development Goals: A Partnership for Progress

The ultimate goal of this state visit is to advance shared development goals and create a more prosperous future for both St. Kitts and Nevis and Cuba. By strengthening cooperation in healthcare, education, and regional solidarity, the two nations aim to unlock new opportunities for economic growth, social progress, and human development. The visit represents a renewed commitment to working together, leveraging each other’s strengths, and building a partnership for progress that will benefit present and future generations. The inclusion of advisors in the delegation signals the intention to translate discussions into actionable plans for tangible outcomes.