SKN Foreign Minister Continues to Pursue Collaborative Engagement

17 February 2023 – The Rt Hon Dr Denzil Douglas continues to forge strong partnerships on the sidelines of the 44th Regular Meeting of Heads of the Caribbean Community (CARICOM).

On Thursday 16th February 2023, the Minister of Foreign Affairs, the Rt Hon Dr Denzil Douglas held bilateral talks with Ambassador of Japan, H.E. Matsubara, Yukata. The engagement covered a wide range of issues including expanding cooperation to tackle current challenges, to food security, fisheries and sustainable marine life and tourism. Both sides also expressed their commitment to continue to support each other in the international arena. Foreign Minister Douglas used the opportunity to congratulate Japan on its successful bid to host EXPO 2025 in Osaka, confirmed Saint Kitts and Nevis’ participation and wished Japan well as it continues to prepare for this highly anticipated international exhibition.

Ambassador Matsubara also congratulated Dr Douglas on his appointment as the Minister of Foreign Affairs and reiterated the strong and friendly bonds both our countries, built on a firm foundation of shared values. Turning attention to the Japanese presidency of the G7 and the Summit in Hiroshima in May 2023, Dr Douglas in extending congratulations and wishes for success, also articulated some of the pivotal issues Small Island Developing States (SIDS) continue to confront and expressed appreciation in advance for Japan’s advocacy role in this premier international forum. Saint Kitts and Nevis and Japan enjoy almost 40 years of strong collaboration to build capacity and strengthen systems in key areas such as diplomacy, disaster management, fisheries, and the environment.