Last Updated on February 21, 2025, 7:19 AM AST by Anthony Morris
Prime Minister Dr Terrance Drew attended the Forty-Eighth Regular Meeting of the Conference of Heads of Government of the Caribbean Community (CARICOM) and had a meeting with the Minister of State for Foreign Affairs of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, Adel Bin Ahmed Al-Jubeir. The bilateral meeting was held in Barbados on Thursday, February 20th, 2025.
PM Drew lauded the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia for its continuous support CARICOM nations, especially St Kitts and Nevis.
The two delegates discussed five key areas that will benefit both the nations, including Health and Human Development, Security, Energy, the Global Sustainable Islands Summit, and the 25 by 2025 initiative.
PM Drew appreciated Minister Al-Jubeir for funding St Kitts and Nevis for several important projects within the Federation. He said that Saudi Arabia has played a crucial role in improving the nation’s energy infrastructure.
Saudi Arabia Funds several projects in St Kitts and Nevis
PM Drew highlighted that Saudi Arabia funded US $40 million through the Saudi Fund for Development (SFD) for the expansion of the Needsmust Power Plant Project.
This project included installation of new generators and an advanced metering system for St Kitts Electricity Company (SKELEC). This project aims to enhance the nation’s energy capacity.
Moreover, Saudi Arabia has agreed to fund the advancement of the geothermal energy projects in St Kitts and Nevis.
PM Drew emphasizes the importance of strengthened bond
Prime Minister Dr Terrance Drew emphasized on the broader impact of Saudi Arabia’s contributions to the Caribbean and said that both the nations benefit mutually from such partnerships.
Significance of the meeting
This meeting between PM Drew and Minister Al-Jubeir underscores the commitment of the government of St Kitts and Nevis in creating improved international alliances to drive national development and regional integration.
Furthermore, the government continues to explore collaborative opportunities that will provide benefits for its citizens while leading to the collective advancement of CARICOM member states.
Anthony Morris covers stories related to politics and regional developments. His in-depth reporting about governance and reforms makes him stand out in regional journalism, with a deep analysis of political trends and their impact on Caribbean communities.
