KINGSTOWN, St Vincent — A strong advocate for the advancement of regional integration in the region, prime minister Ralph Gonsalves’ tenure as chairman of the Organisation of Eastern Caribbean States (OECS) focused on deepening relations amongst member States and improving the quality of life for citizens.
Key areas of focus, under Gonsalves’ chairmanship, were: (a) Membership; (b) Strengthened resilience to climate change; (c) Improved disaster preparedness and response; (d) International advocacy and cooperation;(e) Improved air travel in the Eastern Caribbean; (f) Innovation in agriculture and reduction of the food import bill;(g) Strengthened educational initiatives;(h) Improvement and innovation in healthcare; (i) Preservation of Marine resources.
(a) Membership
A high point during Gonsalves’ tenure was the accession of Guadeloupe to the OECS in March 2019. The French territory joined the OECS as an associate member at an official ceremony held in Basse -Terre, Guadeloupe. As is customary, a Commissioner of Guadeloupe to the OECS, Dr Ruddy Blonbou was appointed following the official ceremony.
Plans for the French territory of Saint Martin to join the organisation are still underway, however, the country remains on observer status until it has recovered sufficiently from the damages incurred by hurricane Irma. The Dutch territory of Sint Maarten has also expressed a strong willingness to strengthen cooperation with the…
