PM Holness congratulates St Lucia’s Philip J Pierre on assuming CARICOM Chairmanship

Prime Minister Andrew Holness has extended congratulations to Prime Minister Philip J Pierre of Saint Lucia on assuming the Chairmanship of the Caribbean Community (CARICOM).

“I look forward to working closely with Prime Minister Pierre and my fellow Heads of Government as we continue to strengthen regional cooperation, address the issues affecting our people, and pursue opportunities that support sustainable growth and development across the Caribbean.

“On behalf of the Government and people of Jamaica, I extend my best wishes for a successful tenure as Chairman of CARICOM,” Holness said.

Pierre assumed duties as Chair of the Conference of Heads of Government of the Caribbean Community (CARICOM) effective 1 July 2026. Prime Minister Pierre holds lead responsibility for Sustainable Development (including Environment, Climate Change, Disaster Management and Water) within the CARICOM Quasi Cabinet. In this capacity, he has guided coordinated regional action on climate resilience, ocean governance, disaster risk management and water security, while advancing the Community’s advocacy in global environmental decision-making.

Among the achievements under this portfolio is the adoption of the CARICOM Environment and Natural Resources Policy Framework in 2025. The Framework forms part of the Caribbean Community Single Market and Economy (CSME) architecture and provides a regional basis for cooperation among Member States in the protection, conservation and sustainable use of natural resources to support economic development.  Demonstrating his ability to link the dimensions of development to target the pressing needs of the Region, in the Foreword to the Policy Framework, Prime Minister Pierre noted,

“I believe that our youth play a crucial role in promoting environmental sustainability. I also believe that the environmental sector offers many opportunities which, when coupled with relevant skills and training, can allow young people to secure sustainable livelihoods in sectors that are linked to nature and the environment, including Environmental Sciences, Agriculture and Tourism.”

On the international stage, Prime Minister Pierre is a respected voice for Saint Lucia and the wider Caribbean, advocating for climate justice, economic fairness, and stronger regional cooperation within forums such as CARICOM. His diplomatic approach emphasises partnership, mutual respect, and the advancement of shared interests among small island states.