CARICOM Must Fortify Now! Says Prime Minister Drew In Response to Shifting Geopolitical Landscape

Basseterre, Saint Kitts, January 22, 2026 (PMO) — Prime Minister of St. Kitts and Nevis and Chairman of CARICOM, Hon. Dr. Terrance Drew, has underscored the urgent need for the region to strengthen collective action and regional integration, as Caribbean states navigate an increasingly complex and uncertain global environment.

Speaking on the Issues Programme on Freedom FM, January 2200, Prime Minister Drew emphasized that the current geopolitical climate demands unity, coordination, and renewed commitment among CARICOM member states.

“This is the time when CARICOM really needs to fortify and to be as strong as possible,” Prime Minister Drew stated. “Collectively, we protect each other, and we put each other on the best standing possible.”

Since assuming the CARICOM Chairmanship on January 1, 2026, Prime Minister Drew has initiated direct bilateral engagements with regional leaders, beginning with official visits to St. Vincent and the Grenadines and Antigua and Barbuda. These engagements form part of a broader strategy to reinforce trust, alignment, and cooperation across the Community.

The Prime Minister noted that CARICOM’s value extends far beyond political symbolism, pointing to tangible regional mechanisms that support security, education, disaster preparedness, monetary stability, and economic resilience. He reaffirmed that collective sovereignty, not isolation, remains the Caribbean’s strongest defense.

“We are stronger together than by ourselves,” he said. “CARICOM gives us a larger voice on international issues and the ability to withstand shocks that no single small state could manage alone.”

On this front, St. Kitts and Nevis will host the 50th CARICOM Heads of Government Meeting from February 24–27, 2026, which will provide a critical forum for leaders to candidly address challenges and recommit to the integration movement.

As Chair, Prime Minister Drew reaffirmed his commitment to ensuring CARICOM remains functional, relevant, and resilient, stressing that unity, especially during times of strain, is essential to securing the region’s future.