Source: Erasmus Williams FB
New Delhi, INDIA — India’s External Affairs Minister, Hon. Dr Subrahmanyam Jaishankar, on Tuesday highlighted the historical and strategic depth of ties between the Republic of India and the Federation of St. Kitts and Nevis.
He earlier met with St. Kitts and Nevis’ Minister of Foreign Affairs, Rt. Hon. Dr Denzil L. Douglas.
Speaking at the official inauguration of the new High Commission of St. Kitts and Nevis in New Delhi, the Indian minister expressed his delight at attending the ceremony and congratulated the Government of St. Kitts and Nevis on maintaining close and very friendly ties since the establishment of diplomatic relations in 1983.
“Our bilateral engagement is built on the common values of democracy and our historic struggle against colonialism,” he said.
Emphasising shared global priorities, he added: “These shared experiences have fostered a deep bond between us as fellow members of the Global South. Over the years, the convergence of our views has become evident on issues of contemporary relevance, including climate justice, health security, and development challenges.”
Highlighting India’s support for Small Island Developing States (SIDS), Jaishankar said: “As a Small Island Developing State (SIDS), St. Kitts and Nevis faces particular vulnerabilities to climate change. India remains committed to supporting SIDS in addressing these challenges through capacity building, technology transfer, and collaboration in renewable energy, disaster resilience, and sustainable development.”
He also underscored cooperation in global forums and development partnerships, such as at the UN General Assembly. “We have worked closely in global and regional forums to make our voices heard and our interests recognised, and we meet regularly — particularly in our case, Excellency — during the UN General Assembly.”
Referring to bilateral initiatives related to Lima beans, he said: “India is already engaged in a project on the processing and packaging of Lima beans. We agreed today, during our discussions earlier this afternoon, to conclude a framework on quick-impact projects that will deliver benefits for local communities.”
On healthcare and regional cooperation, Jaishankar noted: “We also spoke about health challenges and the importance of maintaining medical inventories and emergency supplies nearby for the use of CARICOM [Caribbean Community] members.”
Touching upon economic sectors, the Indian foreign minister said: “Tourism is the lifeblood of the economy of St. Kitts and Nevis. Our discussions touched upon the involvement of Indian businesses in this sector. We also examined the merits of making Indian talent and skills more readily available, especially in the health, tourism, and infrastructure sectors.”
He further offered India’s expertise in digital governance, stating: “India has enthusiastically embraced digital opportunities to promote good governance and economic efficiency. We would be glad to share best practices with our partners, including St. Kitts and Nevis and indeed other members of CARICOM.”
Highlighting multilateral cooperation, Jaishankar said: “On the multilateral front, both our countries continue to support each other in South-South cooperation initiatives. We also appreciate St. Kitts and Nevis’ active participation in the International Solar Alliance, reflecting our shared commitment to renewable energy and climate action.”
Congratulating St. Kitts and Nevis on Prime Minister Hon. Dr. Terrance M. Drew assuming the chairmanship of the Caribbean Community (CARICOM), the Indian foreign minister added: “India shares warm and longstanding relations with CARICOM countries. We attach great importance to this partnership. The second India–CARICOM Summit, held in November 2024 in Guyana and co-chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, was indeed very productive.”
Jaishankar concluded: “I once again congratulate the Government of St. Kitts and Nevis on this important diplomatic milestone, and I wish the High Commission every success in strengthening our partnership.”
Credit: ANI