Saint Martin will officially join the Organisation of Eastern Caribbean States as an associate member during the OECS Authority’s 76th meeting, emphasizing regional unity and cooperation. Prime Minister Roosevelt Skerrit hailed this addition as a step towards collective strength among Caribbean nations.
The French island of Saint Martin is set to join the Organisation of Eastern Caribbean States (OECS) as an associate member, according to Prime Minister Roosevelt Skerrit. This announcement was made ahead of the OECS Authority’s 76th meeting, which will be held on the island. Prime Minister Skerrit emphasized that the joining of Saint Martin, alongside existing associate members Martinique and Guadeloupe, symbolizes the strength of regional unity and collaboration.
Expressing his pride, Prime Minister Skerrit remarked on the importance of regional integration and how it enhances collective negotiation, trade, and development capabilities. He stated, “When we stand as one Caribbean we negotiate better, we trade smarter and we develop stronger.” This sentiment underscores Dominica’s commitment to fostering unity within the Caribbean region.
St. Lucia’s Prime Minister Philip J Pierre will chair the upcoming OECS meeting and preside over the accession ceremony for Saint Martin. A statement from the Office of the Prime Minister of St. Lucia indicated that the leaders would concentrate on crucial regional priorities such as economic development and cooperation.
The OECS consists of several islands including Antigua and Barbuda, Dominica, Grenada, Montserrat, St Kitts-Nevis, St Lucia, St Vincent and the Grenadines, alongside Anguilla, the British Virgin Islands, Martinique, and Guadeloupe. This expansion aims to strengthen regional cooperation and collective action among member states in the face of common challenges.
The inclusion of Saint Martin as an associate member of the OECS marks a significant development in regional cooperation and unity. With strong support from OECS leaders, the accession highlights the importance of collaboration among Caribbean nations to address economic and developmental challenges. The upcoming meeting will further solidify commitments to shared goals and unity in the region.
Original Source: www.jamaicaobserver.com
