Effective January 1^st, 2026, Prime Minister of Saint Kitts and Nevis, the Hon. Dr. Terrance Drew has assumed chairmanship of the Caribbean Community or CARICOM.

In a message for Caribbean nationals for the New Year Drew called for renewed unity, calm leadership, and collective action in the Caribbean. He praised the previous chair, Dr. the Most Hon. Andrew Holness for guiding the region through turbulence and reaffirmed commitment to regional integration.

Reflecting on CARICOM’s founding in 1973, the address emphasized that integration remains essential in an uncertain global environment.

The speech reaffirmed support for reparatory justice, continued engagement on Haiti’s stabilization ahead of anticipated 2026 elections, and pride in the Caribbean’s global contributions to culture, sport, and intellectual life.

Pm Drew also commented:

Hon. Dr. Terrance Drew.

Meantime – The Hon. Dr. Terrance Drew made this statement on his social media page:

“As we are aware, serious events unfolded … in Venezuela and, having assumed the Chairmanship of the Caribbean Community (CARICOM) on January 1, I have been and continue to be engaged in discussions with colleague Heads of Government, regional leaders and the CARICOM Secretariat.”

He added “I also wish to assure the citizens and residents of Saint Kitts and Nevis, specifically, that I will continue to work in the best interests of our people and country.”

The comments come amidst the developments relating to the United States Government carrying out strikes on Venezuela and capturing the Venezuelan President, Nicolas Maduro and his spouse.

Also, Premier of Nevis, and Leader of the Opposition of St. Kitts and Nevis, the Hon. Mark Brantley also released a statement stating:

“Both Venezuela and the United States have been longstanding friends of St. Kitts and Nevis. I therefore remain hopeful that hostilities will cease immediately and that diplomacy will be given a chance to resolve outstanding issues in a peaceful manner.”