BASSETERRE — The Federation rolled out a full military welcome Sunday as Deputy Prime Minister Hon. Dr. Geoffrey Hanley officially received President of Suriname, H.E. Jennifer Geerlings-Simons, upon her arrival ahead of the historic 50th Regular Meeting of the Conference of Heads of Government of CARICOM.
Dr. Hanley extended warm greetings to the Surinamese head of state on behalf of the Federation, marking one of the first formal arrivals of a sitting Head of Government as Basseterre prepares to host one of the most significant gatherings in CARICOM’s history.
The St. Kitts and Nevis Defence Force provided a commanding military welcome that drew praise for its precision and professionalism. The ceremony set an impressive tone for what promises to be a landmark week of regional diplomacy in the twin-island Federation.
President Geerlings-Simons is among the regional leaders expected to engage on critical agenda items including the implementation of the CARICOM Single Market and Economy (CSME), food security, and economic cooperation with third states — all under the summit’s rallying theme: “Beyond Words: Action Today for a Thriving, Sustainable CARICOM.”
The meeting runs February 24–27 under the chairmanship of Prime Minister Hon. Dr. Terrance Drew, who holds the Chair of the Conference for the first half of 2026.
With more regional leaders set to arrive in the coming hours, St. Kitts and Nevis is stepping fully into its role as the Caribbean’s diplomatic host — and Sunday’s ceremony signalled the Federation is ready.