CARICOM at a Decisive Hour, Says Chairman Drew 

Basseterre, Saint Kitts and Nevis, February 26, 2026 (PMO) — Positioning the Caribbean at what he described as “a decisive hour,” Prime Minister of Saint Kitts and Nevis and Chairman of the Caribbean Community (CARICOM), the Honourable Dr. Terrance Drew reflected on the rapidly evolving global landscape marked by geopolitical tensions, supply chain disruptions, energy market volatility, climate shocks, and economic uncertainty. 

Prime Minister Drew was at the time speaking at the Opening Ceremony of the 50th Regular Meeting of the Conference of Heads of Government, on Tuesday, February 24th.

In such an environment, he used the opportunity to warn that small island states are particularly vulnerable to fragmentation and isolation.

“In such a world, fragmentation breeds vulnerability. By contrast, togetherness generates resilience.”

The Prime Minister emphasized that the Caribbean’s strength lies not in individual capacity alone, but in disciplined coordination and collective resolve. He underscored that the founding pillars of CARICOM,  cooperation, functional integration, economic coordination, and collective self-reliance, were designed precisely to safeguard small states against global shocks.

Dr. Drew also noted that as supply chains remain uncertain and external pressures intensify, deeper integration within CARICOM is not optional but essential, adding that, from food and energy security to regional security cooperation and economic coordination, resilience must be built deliberately and collectively.

The Chairman further reaffirmed that the Caribbean has historically risen through adversity and must once again rely on its shared institutions and unified voice to protect its interests on the international stage.

Throughout this week, the visiting Heads of Government of the CARICOM are engaged in high-level deliberations addressing critical regional priorities. These discussions are being guided by the Chairman’s clear emphasis that “fragmentation breeds vulnerability” and that “togetherness generates resilience.” 

As global uncertainties continue to test small states, the 50th Regular Meeting stands as a working session of substance,  one rooted in disciplined coordination, collective problem-solving, and a shared commitment to strengthening CARICOM for the benefit of all Caribbean people.

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