Inaugural Meeting and Attendance
The Heads of Government of the OECS met in Saint Lucia on 13th January 2026. The meeting was hosted by Prime Minister Philip J. Pierre of Saint Lucia and chaired by Prime Minister Dr. Godwin Friday of St. Vincent and the Grenadines in his inaugural meeting.

The gathering included Prime Ministers Roosevelt Skerrit of Dominica, Dickon Mitchell of Grenada, Dr. Terrance Drew of St. Kitts and Nevis, and Premier Reuben T. Meade of Montserrat. Also present were Premier Dr. Natalio Wheatley of the British Virgin Islands, Premier Cora Richardson-Hodge of Anguilla, and OECS Director General Dr. Didacus Jules.

Regional and Geopolitical Issues
The meeting addressed critical regional and international issues. These included the emerging geopolitical environment, regional developments, and proposals under discussion with the United States.

The Heads discussed ongoing developments between Venezuela and the United States and potential impacts on economic stability, regional security, energy security, migration flows, and diplomatic relations. They reaffirmed the OECS’ commitment to peace, stability, and good neighborly relations in the hemisphere.

Third Country Nationals Negotiations
The Heads discussed U.S. requests to OECS members, including Grenada, Saint Lucia, Dominica, Antigua and Barbuda, and St. Kitts and Nevis, to accept Third Country Nationals. Some states have already signed Non-Legally Binding Memoranda of Understanding.

Therefore, the Heads agreed to form a high-level negotiating team with representatives from OECS members to conduct technical discussions with the United States.

Citizenship by Investment Programs (CIPs)
The Heads reaffirmed their commitment to ongoing improvements in CIPs across five relevant jurisdictions. They highlighted nine months of efforts to establish a regional regulatory authority and implement legislative reforms. They also stressed continued engagement with partners, including the European Union.

Future Security and Travel Enhancements
The Heads committed to adopting traveler biometrics systems throughout the OECS. This will improve border security, facilitate seamless travel, and enhance traveler experience.

Collective Action and Communication
Given the dynamic geopolitical environment, the Heads will meet in political caucus as needed. They emphasized collective action, regional solidarity, and principled engagement with the international community.

The Heads remain committed to public communication to ensure citizens understand that all decisions serve their best interests.

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