Saint Martin will join the OECS as an associate member on March 18, 2025, as announced by Prime Minister Roosevelt Skerrit. This inclusion highlights the unity and cooperative goals of the OECS, which also promotes regional economic development. St Lucia’s Prime Minister Philip J. Pierre will lead the meeting where this accession will take place, emphasizing regional priorities.
On March 18, 2025, the French island of Saint Martin will officially become an associate member of the Organisation of Eastern Caribbean States (OECS). This announcement was made by Prime Minister Roosevelt Skerrit, who will attend the 76th OECS Authority meeting where the accession will take place. Saint Martin will join fellow associate members Martinique and Guadeloupe in this prominent regional collaboration.
Prime Minister Skerrit emphasized the importance of unity among Caribbean nations, stating, “When we stand as one Caribbean, we negotiate better, we trade smarter, and we develop stronger.” He affirmed Dominica’s commitment to regional integration and expressed pride in welcoming Saint Martin into the OECS family, reinforcing the ideals of strength, unity, and progress.
St Lucia’s Prime Minister Philip J. Pierre will preside over the OECS meeting and the accession ceremony. The meeting is expected to address crucial regional priorities, particularly in economic development and cooperation among member states.
The OECS is comprised of a diverse group of islands, including Antigua and Barbuda, Dominica, Grenada, Montserrat, St Kitts-Nevis, St Lucia, St Vincent and the Grenadines, as well as Anguilla, the British Virgin Islands, Martinique, and Guadeloupe. This expansion includes significant representation from French Caribbean territories, highlighting a collaborative effort in the region.
The accession of Saint Martin as an associate member of the OECS marks a significant step in furthering regional integration and cooperation among Caribbean nations. Prime Minister Skerrit’s remarks underline the importance of unity in negotiating and developing collectively. The upcoming meeting in St Lucia will emphasize key priorities, signaling a commitment to collaborative progress in the Caribbean region.
Original Source: www.jamaicaobserver.com
