As world leaders prepare to converge in New York for one of the United Nations’ most high-profile annual gatherings, the head of government of the Caribbean island nation of Saint Lucia is gearing up to deliver his country’s official address to the global body. Prime Minister Philip J. Pierre is scheduled to take the podium at the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) during the High-Level Week of the 81st Session this Friday, with an initial speaking slot set for 2:30 p.m. Officials note that this timing remains subject to adjustment based on the flow of ongoing deliberations throughout the session.
Pierre is in Manhattan to participate in the UNGA General Debate, a core five-day gathering running from September 22 to 26, with an additional plenary session scheduled for September 28. This year’s General Debate centers on the unifying overarching theme: “Restoring Trust, Managing Transformation: A United Nations That Delivers for All.” The theme sets the agenda for participating heads of state and government, who will convene to debate a range of pressing transnational challenges, from global peace and security to accelerating climate action, advancing inclusive sustainable development, and unlocking critical financing for developing nations.
Beyond delivering Saint Lucia’s national statement to the assembly, the Prime Minister has a packed schedule of diplomatic engagements during his New York trip, according to a statement from the Office of the Prime Minister. Pierre will hold bilateral meetings with fellow world leaders to advance discussions on policy priorities that are of core national interest to Saint Lucia.
Away from formal United Nations proceedings, Pierre will also carve out time to connect with Saint Lucia’s global diaspora. The Saint Lucian Consulate General in New York has organized a public engagement event titled “Engaging the Diaspora: An Audience with Prime Minister the Hon. Philip J. Pierre and the Hon. Alva R. Baptiste, Minister of External Affairs,” which is open to members of the local Saint Lucian community and diaspora members from across the region. The gathering is set to take place on Saturday, September 26, 2026 at 4 p.m. at the Friends of Crown Heights community facility in Brooklyn. Following the conclusion of all his scheduled engagements, Pierre is expected to depart New York and return to his home country of Saint Lucia on Sunday afternoon.