Prime Minister Godwin Friday is leading the delegation of St. Vincent and the Grenadines to the 50th Regular Meeting of the Conference of Heads of Government of CARICOM, taking place in St. Kitts and Nevis, from later on Tuesday until Friday.
It is the first gathering of regional leaders since Friday came to office in the Nov. 27 general election.
The conference brings together Heads of Government of CARICOM Member States to deliberate on key regional priorities, including economic cooperation, sustainable development, food security, climate resilience, regional security, and the strengthening of Caribbean integration.
“Prime Minister Friday’s participation forms part of the Government’s commitment to advancing the interests of St. Vincent and the Grenadines within the regional integration movement and to working collaboratively with regional partners to address shared challenges and pursue opportunities for growth and development,” a release from the office of the prime minister said.
The release did not identify the other members of the delegation. However, a photo out of St. Kitts and Nevis suggests that they include his wife, Ave Friday, Minister of Foreign Affairs Fitz Bramble, two of the prime minister’s advisors, and a security officer.
“During the conference, the Prime Minister is expected to participate in plenary sessions and engage in discussions with regional leaders on matters of mutual interest, aimed at strengthening cooperation across the community,” the release said.
“The Government of St. Vincent and the Grenadines remains committed to constructive regional engagement in support of a stronger, more resilient, and more integrated Caribbean Community.”