Dr. Denzil Douglas Deepens Saint Kitts and Nevis-Canada Relationship on visit to Ottawa as Federation marks 40 years of Independence and 40 years of diplomatic relations with Canada

Ottawa, Canada (30^th August 2023) – Foreign Minister Douglas is currently on a working visit to Canada to leverage the Federation’s 40^th Anniversary of Independence and 40 years of diplomatic relations. As the Federation reorients its foreign policy toward building a Sustainable Island State, the Foreign Minister is keen to expand win-win partnerships for securing a resilient future.  As one of the first countries to recognize an independent Saint Kitts and Nevis, Canada continues to be a strategic partner for the Federation’s development and diplomatic agenda.

In Ottawa, the Foreign Minister engaged with the staff at the Saint Kitts and Nevis High Commission and lauded the High Commissioner and colleagues for driving results-based diplomacy.  The Foreign Minister also provided strategic direction and advocated for a comprehensive approach to Canadian diplomacy.  Dr. Douglas urged the diplomatic mission to pursue bilateral, regional, and multilateral outcomes that are focused on the future, and underscored the need to cultivate relationships at not only the Federal level but also at the provincial and municipal levels and further with universities, industry associations and institutional investors.

Dr Douglas acknowledged Canada’s strategic value for Saint Kitts and Nevis’ international relations by stating that, “Saint Kitts and Nevis, though small is not inhibited by its size but will continue to punch above its weight and play a leading role regionally and internationally, particularly by championing the sustainable island state agenda.”

While in Ottawa the Foreign Minister also engaged with Parliamentary Secretary to the Minster of Foreign Affairs at Global Affairs Canada and other Canadian ministries as well as with private sector representatives including a tour of the Kanata Technology Park – Canada’s largest technology hub.

A key pillar of the Foreign Minister’s visit to Canada is centered on engagement with Kittitians and Nevisians who anchor and cultivate the longstanding bilateral relationship.

The Foreign Minister also traveled to Halifax, Nova Scotia where he will engage with provincial, industry and education leaders.

This visit coincides with H.E. Sherry Tross’ final days before she demits office as Saint Kitts and Nevis highest resident diplomat to Canada.  The Ministry takes the opportunity to thank High Commissioner Tross for her yeoman service to the Government and people of the Federation and wish her every success in her new pursuits.

*****