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By Kevon Browne
KITTS AND NEVIS (WINN) – The Organization of Eastern Caribbean States (OECS) Authority held its 75th meeting virtually on August 2, 2024, chaired by the Prime Minister of Saint Lucia, the Honourable Philip J. Pierre. The meeting marked the transition of leadership from the outgoing Chair, the Honourable Terrance Drew, Prime Minister of Saint Kitts and Nevis.
Leadership Transition and Strategic Priorities
In his speech, Prime Minister Philippe Pierre outlined the main objectives of his presidency, focusing on completing key elements of regional integration, including barrier-free travel, the movement of people and the free flow of goods.
Outgoing Chairman Dr. Terrence Drew highlighted the progress made during his tenure and reaffirmed the district’s commitment to continued development.
Dr. Didax Jules, Director General of the Organisation of Eastern Caribbean States Commission, discussed the various challenges facing the region, including the impact of climate change, economic fragility and the need for resilient healthcare systems and equitable access to technology and education.
Key agenda items and resolutions
Several important topics were discussed at the meeting:
Eastern Caribbean Supreme Court (ECSC) Budget
Acting Chief Justice Mario Michel presented the European Coal and Steel Community’s budget, operational updates, plans for a public awareness campaign and progress towards establishing a new headquarters in St. Lucia.
Eastern Caribbean Civil Aviation Authority (ECCAA) Latest News
Director-General Anthony Whittier presented the latest efforts to restore ECCAA’s Tier 1 status, stressing the importance of Member States ratifying and implementing the necessary regulations.
Organisation of Eastern Caribbean States Commission Work Plan and Budget (2024-2027)
The OECS Commission has proposed a three-year work plan for 2024-2027, focusing on five strategic priorities: accelerating regional integration, reshaping the economy, valuing the environment, building resilience, and promoting equity and inclusion.
Regional integration issues
An update was provided on the development of the OECS Customs Union and the free movement of persons regime.
Food and Agricultural Systems Transformation (FAST) Strategy
The agency discussed the 10-year FAST strategy, including initiatives supported by the European Development Fund (EDF) and the OECS Centre for Food and Nutrition Security.
Sustainable Tourism Policy Update
The OECS Commission is updating the OECS Common Tourism Policy with support from the World Bank’s Unleashing the Blue Economy in the Caribbean (UBEC) project.
Eastern Caribbean Liaison Service (ECLS) Vision Document
Reviewed the proposed 3-year vision plan for the ECLS program, which focuses on expanding job opportunities and promoting technology transfer in new job areas.
Seventh session of the Assembly of the Organization of Eastern Caribbean States
The 7th meeting of the Assembly of the Organization of Eastern Caribbean States has been approved and is scheduled to be held in September or October 2024. This meeting will focus on the debate on regional integration and the free circulation of goods instruments.
Fourth Small Island Developing States (SIDS) Conference
The meeting reviewed the outcomes of the SIDS 4 Conference held in Antigua and Barbuda in May 2024. These included the establishment of a Centre of Excellence for SIDS and other initiatives under the Antigua and Barbuda Agenda for SIDS (ABAS).
More updates
The conference also included a presentation by Global Ports Holding, the world’s largest cruise port operator, on its latest developments and investments in the Caribbean. In addition, Dr. Didacus Jules provided an update on Sint Maarten’s planned membership of the Organization of Eastern Caribbean States, which is expected to take place in November 2024.
The next meeting of the OECS authorities is scheduled to take place on Sint Maarten during its accession period.
For the full announcement, visit OECS Press Room.
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