Saint Kitts and Nevis, Guyana ink key agreements to boost agriculture, security, and digital governance

Saint Kitts and Nevis and Guyana have taken a major step in deepening bilateral relations with the signing of three Memoranda of Understanding (MOUs) covering non-lethal defense and security cooperation, agriculture and food security, and government modernization.

The agreements were finalized during Prime Minister Hon. Dr. Terrance Drew’s official visit to Guyana, where he also formalized Saint Kitts and Nevis’ membership in the Global Biodiversity Alliance, an international initiative launched by President H.E. Dr. Mohamed Irfaan Ali to safeguard biodiversity and promote sustainable development.

The signing marks a significant advancement in cooperation between the two Caribbean nations, building on a longstanding relationship rooted in shared history, regional solidarity, and people-to-people ties. The new agreements establish frameworks for collaboration in sectors critical to the development priorities of both countries and the wider Caribbean Community (CARICOM).

Prime Minister Drew emphasized that the MOUs reflect a shared commitment to translating vision into tangible benefits for citizens. “I’ve selected areas that I think will have a meaningful impact on St. Kitts and Nevis,” he said, highlighting the importance of focused and strategic implementation.

On agriculture and food security, Prime Minister Drew stressed the need to strengthen local production and reduce reliance on external markets, particularly amid rising global food prices. He pointed to opportunities for Saint Kitts and Nevis to benefit from Guyana’s expanding agricultural capacity while enhancing domestic output through knowledge transfer and technical support. “There’s a lot to learn, but there’s also opportunities. We want to buy food within the region—why buy it from outside?” he remarked, noting the Federation’s tourism sector as a reliable market for regional produce.

Regarding government modernization, Prime Minister Drew welcomed Guyana’s support in leveraging technology to improve governance, project oversight, and decision-making. Access to real-time data and modern digital systems is expected to strengthen public administration and accelerate national development outcomes, supporting Saint Kitts and Nevis’ broader digital transformation agenda.

Saint Kitts and Nevis’ entry into the Global Biodiversity Alliance further aligns the Federation’s Sustainable Island State Agenda with a global initiative to protect ecosystems, preserve natural resources, and foster scientific innovation. “Biodiversity is fundamental to our national agenda. This is natural for us,” Prime Minister Drew said, adding that he would encourage wider Caribbean participation as CARICOM Chairman.

President Ali welcomed the strengthened partnership, reaffirming Guyana’s commitment to supporting regional development through shared resources, innovation, and practical cooperation. He praised Prime Minister Drew’s leadership and noted that the agreements signal the start of even deeper collaboration to improve the lives of Caribbean people.

The visit underscores Saint Kitts and Nevis’ proactive approach to regional diplomacy, pursuing strategic partnerships that advance national priorities, enhance resilience, and create lasting opportunities for its citizens.