74th Organization of Eastern Caribbean States concludes in St Kitts and Nevis

The 74^th Organization of Eastern Caribbean States (OECS) which took place from February 14^th to 15^th concluded with a press conference to update the public on the points of interest during the meeting.

The OECS was established in June of 1981 with seven countries from the eastern Caribbean signing the treaty of Basseterre. The treaty was meant to coordinate and harmonize foreign policy, and to strengthen overseas representation of the nations.

These nations include Antigua and Barbuda, Dominica, Grenada, Saint Kitts and Nevis, Saint Lucia, Saint Vincent and the Grenadines.

The treaty was updated and replaced in 2010 with the revised treaty of Basseterre which was developed to construct economic ties between the seven nations.

This week, the 74^th annual meeting took place which was hosted by the Prime Minister, Dr Terrence Drew.

It has been established that a major point of interest for the meeting included the following:

• Healthcare issues facing the OECS
• Further establishing legislative and institutional frameworks
• Portability of Social Security short term benefits
• Recycling OECS model demonstration countries decided on the best options in relation to plastic collection systems
• The newly appointed managing director of The Eastern Caribbean Telecommunications Authority David Cox
• The heaviest emphasis was put on long term sustainability and strengthening the free movement of citizens of member states including hassle-free travel, indefinite stay, no requirement of a work permit and recognition of driver's licenses.

While there currently aren’t any dates for the next meeting, it is speculated to take place in the first half of the year.

Media personnel were invited to the Marriott resort in St Kitts and Nevis, there was also the option to attend the press hearing via Zoom.

Addressing the members of the press at the St. Kitts Marriott Resort were the Prime Minister of St. Kitts and Nevis and Chairman of the OECS Authority, Hon. Dr. Terrance Drew, President of the Executive Council of Martinique, Hon. Serge Letchimy and Director General of the OECS, H.E. Dr. Didacus Jules.