In a significant diplomatic development, Nevis Deputy Premier Honourable Eric Evelyn and Anguilla Premier Honourable Cora Richardson-Hodge have convened productive bilateral discussions aimed at strengthening inter-island cooperation. The high-level meeting, which occurred during Deputy Premier Evelyn’s official visit to Anguilla as a special guest for the Hook and Harvest event, marked a pivotal step in formalizing the longstanding relationship between the two Caribbean territories.
The comprehensive dialogue centered on agricultural collaboration, with both leaders exploring concrete mechanisms for knowledge exchange and technical support. Deputy Premier Evelyn emphasized the potential for mutual growth through structured cooperation, stating: “We focused on cooperation in agriculture, including exchange visits between our departments, sharing technical support, and assisting with initiatives to increase food production.” He extended a formal invitation for Anguilla’s participation in Nevis’ Agri-Expo 30 scheduled for 2026.
Further technical discussions involved Anguilla’s Minister with Responsibility for Agriculture, Honourable Kyle Hodge, and Parliamentary Secretary Honourable Cordell Richardson. The talks addressed critical agricultural challenges including production limitations, water availability issues, soil compatibility, and the development of both government and private farming operations. Particular attention was given to strategies for expanding vegetable and fruit production capacities.
The bilateral engagement also explored substantial trade opportunities following a recent fact-finding mission by Anguilla’s agricultural delegation to study Nevis’ innovative smart farming model. Potential trade exchanges include Nevis exporting fresh fruits, vegetables, meat, and mango pulp to Anguilla, while Anguilla would supply prawns and other marine products to Nevis.
Deputy Premier Evelyn characterized the discussions as “very friendly and fruitful,” expressing confidence that “the partnership between our departments can only grow stronger in the future.” The meeting concluded with both governments reaffirming their commitment to enhanced collaboration, mutual economic support, and the continued strengthening of diplomatic and economic ties between the islands.