Prime Minister Drew Commends Saudi Arabia’s Commitment to Regional Economic Development
Basseterre, St. Kitts – February 20, 2025 – During a high-level discussion at the Forty-Eighth Regular Meeting of the Conference of Heads of Government of CARICOM in Barbados, Prime Minister Hon. Dr. Terrance Drew extended heartfelt gratitude to His Excellency Adel bin Ahmed Al-Jubeir, Minister of State for Foreign Affairs of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, for the Kingdom’s steadfast support of CARICOM nations, particularly St. Kitts and Nevis.
Prime Minister Drew praised Saudi Arabia’s structured approach to funding essential development projects in the Federation. A significant example of this is the Saudi Fund for Development (SFD) commitment of US$40 million to expand the Needsmust Power Plant Project. This initiative will enhance the country’s energy infrastructure through the installation of new generators and an advanced metering system for the St. Kitts Electricity Company (SKELEC), strengthening national energy capacity.
Beyond electricity, Saudi Arabia has also approved funding for geothermal energy projects in St. Kitts and Nevis. These investments align with the nation’s vision for energy diversification and sustainability, potentially transforming St. Kitts and Nevis into a net energy exporter in the future.
Recognizing the impact of Saudi engagement in the Caribbean, Prime Minister Drew remarked, “What you’re doing in the region and in St. Kitts and Nevis is well felt.” He reiterated the value of the growing relationship between the two nations, underscoring the mutual benefits of international collaboration.
This meeting highlights St. Kitts and Nevis’ commitment to forging strong global partnerships that support national development and regional integration. The government remains focused on exploring collaborative opportunities that deliver tangible benefits for citizens and contribute to the progress of CARICOM member states.
