Prime Minister Drew Hails Saudi Arabia’s Commitment to Economic Growth in the Region

Basseterre, St. Kitts, February 20, 2025 (PMO)– During a bilateral meeting at the Forty-Eighth Regular Meeting of the Conference of Heads of Government of the Caribbean Community (CARICOM) in Barbados, Prime Minister Hon. Dr. Terrance Drew expressed profound appreciation to the Minister of State for Foreign Affairs of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, His Excellency Adel bin Ahmed Al-Jubeir, for Saudi Arabia’s unwavering support to CARICOM nations, particularly St. Kitts and Nevis.

Prime Minister Drew lauded the Kingdom’s efficient and structured approach in facilitating funding for critical development projects within the Federation. He highlighted Saudi Arabia’s instrumental role in enhancing the nation’s energy infrastructure, notably through the Saudi Fund for Development’s (SFD) commitment of US$40 million for the expansion of the Needsmust Power Plant Project. This initiative includes the installation of new generators and an advanced metering system for the St. Kitts Electricity Company (SKELEC), significantly bolstering the country’s energy capacity.

In addition to bolstering the electricity sector, Saudi Arabia has approved funding to advance geothermal energy projects in St. Kitts and Nevis. These investments are poised to diversify the Federation’s energy portfolio, promote sustainable practices, and position the nation as a potential net energy exporter in the foreseeable future.

Reflecting on the broader impact of Saudi Arabia’s engagement in the Caribbean, Prime Minister Drew remarked, “What you’re doing in the region and in St. Kitts and Nevis is well felt.” He emphasized the importance of strengthening the already vibrant and fruitful relationship between St. Kitts and Nevis and the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, acknowledging the mutual benefits derived from such partnerships.

This meeting underscores the commitment of St. Kitts and Nevis to fostering robust international alliances that drive national development and regional integration. 

The Government remains dedicated to exploring collaborative opportunities that yield tangible benefits for its citizens and contribute to the collective advancement of CARICOM member states.