Saint Martin to Become Associate Member of OECS

Saint Martin is set to join the OECS as an associate member during a meeting in the French island. Prime Minister Roosevelt Skerrit highlighted the importance of regional unity for better economic negotiations and development. The ceremony will be chaired by St Lucia’s Prime Minister Philip J Pierre, with discussions on regional priorities.

The French island of Saint Martin is set to join the Organisation of Eastern Caribbean States (OECS) as an associate member, as announced by Prime Minister Roosevelt Skerrit. The official accession will take place during the 76th meeting of the OECS Authority convening on the island. Saint Martin will join other associate members including Martinique and Guadeloupe.

Prime Minister Skerrit emphasized that the integration strengthens ties within the OECS and, more broadly, within CARICOM. He stated that unity among Caribbean nations enhances their negotiating power, trading capabilities, and fosters development. He expressed pride in welcoming Saint Martin and encouraged his fellow citizens to embrace unity for progress both regionally and nationally.

The meeting will be chaired by St Lucia’s Prime Minister Philip J Pierre, who will oversee the accession ceremony. The agenda will focus on crucial regional priorities such as economic development and cooperation, demonstrating the OECS’s commitment to collaborative growth among member states. The OECS comprises Antigua and Barbuda, Dominica, Grenada, Montserrat, St Kitts-Nevis, St Lucia, St Vincent and the Grenadines, Anguilla, the British Virgin Islands, Martinique, and Guadeloupe.

In summary, the accession of Saint Martin to the OECS marks a significant step in regional integration, enhancing economic collaboration and solidarity among member states. Prime Minister Roosevelt Skerrit highlighted the importance of unity for better negotiation and development, while Prime Minister Pierre will oversee the accession ceremony. The focus on economic development at the upcoming meeting underscores the commitment of the OECS to work collaboratively towards common goals.

Original Source: www.jamaicaobserver.com