Statement by the Prime Minister of Saint Kitts and Nevis, the Honourable Dr. Terrance Drew, on the occasion of the 44th Anniversary of the Organisation of Eastern Caribbean States (OECS) and OECS Colours Day – 18th June 2025

Today, we proudly join our brothers and sisters across the region in commemorating the 44th Anniversary of the Organisation of Eastern Caribbean States (OECS) under the theme: “Adapting, Innovating, Sustaining: A Unified OECS for a Changing World.”

This milestone marks over four decades of purposeful collaboration, shared progress, and unwavering commitment to regional integration.

Additionally, as we observe OECS Colours Day, I encourage all citizens and residents to wear the colours of the OECS – Green, Yellow, White, and Navy Blue – as a visible sign of our unity and collective identity as a people of the Eastern Caribbean.

The OECS has stood as a shining example of what can be achieved when small island states work together in the spirit of cooperation and mutual support. From advancing free movement and economic harmonization to strengthening education, health, and climate resilience, the OECS continues to be a beacon of purposeful regionalism. We are proud that the Revised Treaty of Basseterre continues to provide the legal and institutional framework for enhanced cooperation, which will enable us to adapt, innovate, and sustain the gains we have achieved since our heads of government affixed their signatures in our beautiful capital in 2010.

We recognize that we live in a changing world, and we must remain united in order to survive and thrive in this hostile global environment.

Here in Saint Kitts and Nevis, we remain deeply committed to the vision and mission of the OECS.

I wish to commend the Regional Integration and Diaspora Unit (RIDU), a division within the Prime Minister’s Office, for its unwavering efforts to ensure that the ideals of regional integration are not only upheld but actively promoted and lived. Through its dynamic outreach, policy coordination, and public engagement, RIDU has been instrumental in bridging national and regional goals, bringing the OECS closer to the people it serves.

Let us use this anniversary to reflect on how far we have come, and more importantly, to recommit ourselves to the work that lies ahead. Together, we can build a stronger, more resilient, and more united OECS region that responds boldly to the challenges of our time.

Happy OECS Day to all!

Dr. Terrance Drew

Prime Minister of Saint Kitts and Nevis

18th June 2025