BASSETERRE, Saint Kitts and Nevis – The Caribbean Community (CARICOM) is poised to host one of its most significant diplomatic gatherings in history as world leaders and international dignitaries assemble for the 50th Regular Meeting of the Conference of Heads of Government from February 24-27, 2026.
The landmark summit, convened under the theme ‘Beyond Words: Action Today for a Thriving, Sustainable CARICOM,’ has attracted unprecedented international attention with United States Secretary of State Marco Rubio leading the distinguished roster of global participants. Secretary Rubio is scheduled to deliver a keynote address during Wednesday’s Opening Plenary Session, highlighting the strategic importance Washington places on Caribbean partnerships.
The high-level assembly will feature addresses from an impressive array of international figures including Saudi Arabia’s Minister of State for Foreign Affairs Adel al-Jubeir, Commonwealth Secretary-General Shirley Botchwey, United Arab Emirates Minister of State Noura bint Mohammed Al Kaabi, and African Export-Import Bank President Dr. George Elombi. Their collective presence demonstrates growing global recognition of CARICOM’s geopolitical significance.
Host nation Saint Kitts and Nevis, currently holding the rotating CARICOM chairmanship under Prime Minister Dr. Terrance M. Drew, will guide deliberations on pressing regional concerns including climate finance architecture, food and energy security frameworks, and evolving regional security challenges. The gathering of over 200 delegates represents one of the most substantial diplomatic convergences in the Caribbean Community’s five-decade history.
Prime Minister Drew emphasized the transformative potential of this golden jubilee meeting, stating: ‘The world’s eyes will be on Saint Kitts and Nevis as we host this landmark gathering. Our theme challenges us to move from deliberation to decisive action. The caliber of international participation reflects a shared commitment to building a resilient, sustainable, and prosperous Caribbean.’
The summit marks a pivotal moment for regional integration efforts and represents a significant diplomatic achievement for the Drew administration, which assumed the CARICOM leadership role on January 1, 2026.