On December 14, 2014, Saint Kitts and Nevis joined the Bolivarian Alliance for the Peoples of Our America – Peoples’ Trade Treaty (ALBA-TCP), and from this regional platform, it has made significant contributions to the advancement of regional integration.
This northern Caribbean nation, with an area of 261 square kilometers, is deeply committed to the vital role of unity that the Alliance plays in the lives of its peoples and in fostering democracy, trade, and the sovereignty of its 10 member countries.
Basseterre is the capital, and the current Prime Minister of Saint Kitts and Nevis is Terrance Drew. The country’s economy is primarily driven by tourism, agriculture, and manufacturing, although sugar was historically a key industry in its development.
Brotherhood and Integration
During the 23rd ALBA-TCP Summit, held in Venezuela in April 2024, the Ambassador of Saint Kitts and Nevis, Norgen Wilson, called on member states to strengthen cooperation in various fields, such as science and technology.
In his view, these two sectors will enable a more strategic development of the region. He also emphasized that the brotherhood and integration represented by the regional bloc are essential in these times, as imperialism seeks to hinder the growth of South America and the Caribbean.
At the ALBA meeting in Caracas, the diplomat highlighted the importance of the Alliance as a platform for promoting regional unity and cooperation.
“It is crucial for us to support ALBA-TCP because it fosters unity and cooperation, and we all know that as sovereign states, we have the right to make our own decisions,” he remarked.
In its foreign policy, the archipelago of Saint Kitts and Nevis is a member of UNESCO, the World Health Organization, the Caribbean Community (CARICOM), the Association of Caribbean States (ACS), ALBA-TCP, and other international and regional organizations.
Additionally, it hosts the headquarters of the Eastern Caribbean Central Bank, which issues the Eastern Caribbean dollar (EC dollar), the common currency for the OECS countries.
An Island Rich in Tradition
This island nation has a rich history of traditions, passed down through generations.
According to the website “Traditions of Saint Kitts and Nevis,” the country places great importance on its carnival, known as “The Cradle of Caribbean Carnival.”
During this festival, the streets come alive with vibrant parades filled with music, dance, and colorful costumes.
This festivity has outlasted colonization, evolving into a unique cultural expression that celebrates the history and Caribbean spirit of Saint Kitts and Nevis.
Moreover, each community celebrates its patron saint with festivals that showcase local crafts, traditional theatrical performances, and sporting events.
Both visitors and locals come together to enjoy delicious food, live music, and exuberant dances. These festivities not only honor the saints but also strengthen community bonds and pass on cultural heritage to future generations.
Saint Kitts and Nevis is a devoted promoter of brotherhood, the traditions of the region’s peoples, and peace, alongside all the nations that form part of the Bolivarian Alliance for the Peoples of Our America.