by Eulana Weekes
St. Kitts and Nevis (WINN): The 42nd anniversary of the establishment of the Organisation of the Eastern Caribbean States (OECS) was celebrated on June 18 2023, where the flags of all OECS countries were raised during a ceremony at the Zuliani Roundabout in Frigate Bay.
The 42nd celebration also included the 73rd meeting of the OECS held at the Eastern Caribbean Central Bank on Sunday. There, Hon. Dr. Terrance Drew, Prime Minister of St. Kitts and Nevis was announced as the Chairman of the OECS.
In a press statement to the region, Prime Minister Dr. Terrance Drew reflected upon the legacy of the OECS, established on June 18, 1981, with the signing of the Treaty of Basseterre at the Government Headquarters.
“The OECS has undergone significant transformation since the signing of the Treaty of Basseterre in 1981. The treaty was revised in 2010 to increase its relevance, to its member states, taking into account inter alia, the arrangements under the wider CARICOM, which made provision for the CSME – CARICOM Single Market and Economy” said Dr. Drew.
He added.”The OECS is renowned for its solid track record of maintaining a solid monitoring union incorporating prudent fiscal policies. Eastern Caribbean Currency has remained stable for well over 40 years standing as a shining example for small states and other regional integration movements throughout the globe.”
Collaboration in the area of Health continues to be achieved by member states. He said there has been an “equally commendable record in the field of cooperation in healthcare, particularly in joint procurement of pharmaceuticals and certain medical equipment and services.” However, he called for more collaboration by regional partners to formulate preventative measures to tackle diseases.
“It is imperative that we increase our level of cooperation in the field of Health promotion and the prevention of diseases, Communicable and Non-communicable. We are convinced that the wealth of our region lies in the health of the people of our region. The benefits of such an approach are pellucid and are worthy of pursuit.”
Prime Minister Drew’s statement also highlighted other achievements by member states including teamwork to lessen the impact of global supply chain gaps, the engagement by regional leaders to craft ways to address violence and crime and the keeping the EC dollar stable for over four decades.
