TORTOLA, British Virgin Islands, CMC- Premier Dr Natalio Wheatley has praised St Martin’s accession to the Organisation of Jap Caribbean States (OECS), calling the transfer a “historic event” and a important step for regional cooperation amid world uncertainty.
Talking from St Martin in the course of the 76th Assembly of the OECS Authority earlier this week, Wheatley stated the timing of the French territory’s entry couldn’t be extra important.
“We face a tumultuous time on the planet, with nice uncertainty… and positively the very best factor that we are able to do is pull collectively and strengthen cooperation so we are able to make it via these tumultuous waters,” the Premier stated in an interview with Appearing Director of Communications Karia Christopher.
St Martin joins Guadeloupe and Martinique as French territories now included within the OECS, which historically consisted of English-speaking Caribbean states. The BVI has been an affiliate member of the OECS since 1984.
“Regardless that we might have historic and colonial boundaries and even language boundaries, we’re united by a shared expertise, a shared Caribbean Sea unites us, shared challenges unite us, we’re united by cooperation to have the ability to clear up these challenges.”
The OECS, established in 1981, promotes unity, financial integration, and joint motion amongst member states. The BVI and different affiliate members take part in chosen packages however should not have voting rights within the Authority.
The Premier highlighted local weather change, commerce, and meals safety, the place deeper regional collaboration is crucial.
Referencing the shared influence of Hurricane Irma, he stated, “St Martin received hit by Hurricane Irma, Anguilla received hit by Hurricane Irma, Antigua and Barbuda received hit by Hurricane Irma in addition to ourselves.” He additionally described rising considerations over provide chain disruptions and rising tariffs. “We see the prospects of elevated costs, and we additionally see international locations who’re stockpiling items… that speaks to the entire query of meals safety,” he added.
The Premier additionally highlighted the financial advantages of deeper integration with French territories, significantly concerning market entry.
“We see proper right here within the OECS; we’ve got a gateway into the European Union… with St Martin, Guadeloupe, and Martinique within the OECS, a bridge to the European Union.”
“We’d like to have the ability to speed up it… harmonizing our insurance policies, tariffs, and duties on the ports to permit simpler entry,” he acknowledged.
