St. Kitts and Nevis Advances Tourism Strategy through High-Level Representation at OAS Congress

Paragraph 1: St. Kitts and Nevis Takes Center Stage at Inter-American Tourism Congress

On April 3, 2025, St. Kitts and Nevis solidified its commitment to regional tourism leadership by actively participating in the 26th Inter-American Congress of Ministers and High-Level Authorities of Tourism. Held at the Organization of American States (OAS) Headquarters in Washington, D.C., the Congress brought together over 22 ministers and high-ranking tourism officials from across the Americas. Representing the Federation was Mr. Abdullah Skerrit, St. Kitts and Nevis’s Alternate Representative to the OAS. His presence at this high-profile event underscored the nation’s dedication to shaping the future of tourism in the region.

Paragraph 2: Harnessing Heritage Tourism for Development

Themed "Harnessing the Power of Heritage Tourism for Development in the Americas," the 2025 Congress was widely regarded as a pivotal moment for inclusive and sustainable tourism policy across the region. Discussions centered around key issues such as empowering Indigenous and Afro-descendant communities, strengthening micro and small tourism businesses (MSMEs), fostering community-led tourism development models, and developing a comprehensive Inter-American Plan for Heritage Tourism. The Congress served as a platform for the exchange of ideas, best practices, and collaborative strategies to leverage the rich cultural heritage of the Americas for sustainable economic development.

Paragraph 3: St. Kitts and Nevis Joins Global Tourism Leaders

Mr. Skerrit’s participation placed St. Kitts and Nevis alongside influential figures like Jamaica’s Minister of Tourism Edmund Bartlett and OAS Secretary General Luis Almagro. This provided the Federation with a valuable opportunity to contribute to critical conversations shaping the future of tourism. The presence of St. Kitts and Nevis at this high-level summit signified its growing influence and commitment to playing a more active role in shaping regional tourism policy and initiatives. The nation positioned itself as a key player in the ongoing transformation of tourism towards sustainability and heritage-based experiences.

Paragraph 4: A Blueprint for Tourism Innovation and Inclusion

A significant outcome anticipated from the Congress was the adoption of the Draft Declaration and Plan of Action of Ecuador. This document serves as a comprehensive framework for tourism innovation, economic inclusion, and environmental conservation in the Americas. The plan is expected to guide the development of sustainable tourism practices, promote equitable distribution of tourism benefits, and emphasize the preservation of natural and cultural heritage. St. Kitts and Nevis’s engagement with this plan demonstrates its commitment to implementing best practices and aligning its tourism strategies with broader regional goals.

Paragraph 5: From Following Trends to Shaping Policy

While tourism has long been a vital pillar of the St. Kitts and Nevis economy, Mr. Skerrit’s involvement in the OAS Congress marks a shift in the Federation’s approach. The nation is transitioning from simply reacting to tourism trends to actively shaping tourism policy at the hemispheric level. This proactive stance highlights a commitment to contributing to the development of sustainable and responsible tourism practices across the Americas. The Congress provided a valuable platform for St. Kitts and Nevis to engage in diplomatic efforts and build strategic partnerships.

Paragraph 6: Building Partnerships for the Future

Beyond the formal sessions, Mr. Skerrit actively engaged in behind-the-scenes diplomacy and networking with development agencies, tourism ministries, and cultural heritage organizations. These efforts aimed to forge partnerships that could directly benefit the people of St. Kitts and Nevis. By establishing connections with key stakeholders, the Federation seeks to attract investment, share best practices, and enhance its tourism offerings. The Congress served as a catalyst for forging new relationships and strengthening existing ones, ultimately contributing to the sustainable development of tourism in St. Kitts and Nevis. The Federation’s prominent participation signals its determination to be a leader in the Caribbean’s rising tourism prominence, not only as a destination but also as a contributor to regional tourism policy.