Prime Minister Lauds Saudi Arabia’s Dedication to Regional Economic Development

The burgeoning partnership between St. Kitts and Nevis and the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia reached a new milestone during the Forty-Eighth Regular Meeting of the Conference of Heads of Government of the Caribbean Community (CARICOM) in Barbados on February 21, 2025. Prime Minister Hon. Dr. Terrance Drew, in a bilateral meeting with His Excellency Adel bin Ahmed Al-Jubeir, Saudi Arabia’s Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, expressed deep gratitude for the Kingdom’s sustained support to CARICOM nations, and specifically to St. Kitts and Nevis. This appreciation underscored the tangible impact of Saudi Arabian investments in propelling critical development projects within the Federation. The meeting symbolized the growing importance of strategic international collaborations in driving national growth and regional progress within the Caribbean community.

Prime Minister Drew highlighted the significant contribution of the Saudi Fund for Development (SFD) to the enhancement of St. Kitts and Nevis’ energy infrastructure. He specifically acknowledged the SFD’s commitment of US$40 million to the expansion of the Needsmust Power Plant Project. This investment will facilitate the installation of new generators and a modernized metering system for the St. Kitts Electricity Company (SKELEC), significantly boosting the nation’s power generation capacity and improving service delivery. This crucial upgrade will not only address current energy demands but also lay the groundwork for future economic expansion and improved quality of life for citizens. The Prime Minister’s commendation reflected the effectiveness of the Kingdom’s structured approach to development financing, resulting in impactful projects that directly benefit the people of St. Kitts and Nevis.

Beyond the immediate impact on electricity generation, the partnership extends to the development of geothermal energy resources in St. Kitts and Nevis. Saudi Arabia’s financial backing for these projects signals a commitment to diversifying the Federation’s energy sources and fostering sustainable practices. This investment aligns with global efforts to transition towards cleaner energy and reduce reliance on fossil fuels. The development of geothermal energy holds significant potential for transforming St. Kitts and Nevis into a net energy exporter, opening new avenues for economic growth and regional energy security. This forward-looking approach positions the nation as a leader in sustainable energy development within the Caribbean.

Prime Minister Drew’s statement, “What you’re doing in the region and St. Kitts and Nevis is well felt,” encapsulated the tangible positive impact of Saudi Arabia’s engagement within the Caribbean. This sentiment resonates not only with St. Kitts and Nevis but also with other CARICOM nations benefiting from similar partnerships. The Prime Minister emphasized the mutual advantages of strengthening the already robust relationship between the two nations, underscoring the shared commitment to fostering sustainable development and economic prosperity. This collaborative approach reinforces the importance of international cooperation in addressing shared challenges and achieving common goals.

The bilateral meeting served as a testament to St. Kitts and Nevis’ proactive approach to forging strategic international alliances. This commitment to building strong partnerships reflects the government’s dedication to securing the nation’s future by leveraging global resources and expertise. Such collaborations are crucial for driving national development and contributing to the collective advancement of the CARICOM region. By actively seeking out and nurturing mutually beneficial relationships, St. Kitts and Nevis is positioning itself for sustained economic growth and enhanced regional influence.

The government of St. Kitts and Nevis remains steadfast in its pursuit of collaborative opportunities that translate into tangible benefits for its citizens. This focus on tangible outcomes underscores a commitment to responsible governance and ensuring that international partnerships contribute directly to improving the lives of the people. Furthermore, the government’s dedication to regional integration highlights the importance of collective action within CARICOM to address shared challenges and achieve common goals. By actively participating in regional initiatives and fostering collaborative partnerships, St. Kitts and Nevis contributes to the overall strength and prosperity of the Caribbean community.