A key gathering of regional leadership is underway in the twin-island nation of Antigua and Barbuda, where top government officials from across the Organisation of Eastern Caribbean States (OECS) are convening for the 78th Meeting of the OECS Authority, held June 21 to 22, 2026. Among the participating leaders is Prime Minister of Dominica, Hon. Roosevelt Skerrit, who has traveled to the host country to take part in the two-day high-stakes talks.
This annual authority gathering brings together heads of government from all OECS member states to align on pressing shared priorities that shape the future of the Eastern Caribbean region. The packed agenda covers a broad spectrum of critical issues, from advancing inclusive economic growth and deepening cross-border regional integration to strengthening collective climate resilience and boosting regional security frameworks. Delegates will also deliberate over strategies to shore up long-term food and energy sovereignty, expand and implement the bloc’s freedom of movement initiative, and strengthen collaborative partnerships across key public sectors including public health, primary and secondary education, and cross-regional digital transformation.
On the opening day of the meeting, Sunday, Skerrit will join his fellow regional counterparts for the official opening ceremony, where a key leadership transition will take place. During the ceremony, host nation leader Hon. Gaston Browne, Prime Minister of Antigua and Barbuda, will formally take over the rotating Chairmanship of the OECS Authority from outgoing chair Hon. Dr. Godwin Friday, Prime Minister of Saint Vincent and the Grenadines.
To ensure continued stable governance of Dominica during Prime Minister Skerrit’s travel for the regional summit, Hon. Dr. Irving McIntyre — the country’s Minister for Finance, Economic Development, Climate Resilience, and Social Security — has been appointed to serve as Acting Prime Minister for the duration of Skerrit’s absence.