In a landmark event commemorating the 80th anniversary of the United Nations, Mrs. Diani Prince Drew, spouse of the Prime Minister of Saint Kitts and Nevis, joined First Ladies and Gentlemen from around the globe at the United Nations Headquarters in New York on September 24, 2025. The gathering, co-hosted by the Summit of First Ladies and Gentlemen Global Platform (SFLG), the Spouses of CARICOM Leaders Action Network (SCLAN), and the Alliance of Spouses of Heads of State and Representatives of Latin America (ALMA), was facilitated by the Global First Ladies Alliance (GFLA). The event centered on the theme “The Role of First Ladies and Gentlemen – United for Peace and Prosperity,” emphasizing their growing influence as catalysts for change. Participants underscored their commitment to advancing human dignity, peace, education, health, and social progress, transcending political boundaries. A Joint Statement was unveiled, reaffirming their dedication to fostering regional cooperation, supporting communities impacted by conflicts and crises, and promoting dialogue and inclusion as pillars of peace and security. Mrs. Prince Drew, representing SCLAN, highlighted Saint Kitts and Nevis’ dedication to people-centered solutions aligned with the Government’s Sustainable Island State vision. She emphasized that collaborative efforts across regions can pave the way for a more secure, compassionate, and prosperous future for families worldwide. The event featured opening and closing remarks from prominent figures, including Mrs. Olena Zelenska of Ukraine, Mrs. Ann Marie Davis of The Bahamas, and Mrs. Rossana Briceño of Belize, with representatives from Lebanon, Haiti, the Dominican Republic, and numerous other nations also in attendance.
标签: Saint Kitts and Nevis
圣基茨和尼维斯
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Deputy Governor-General for Nevis to Host Special Event in Support of Differently Abled Persons
Her Honour Mrs. Hyleeta Liburd O.B.E., M.H., Deputy Governor-General for Nevis, is set to host a special event on Thursday, September 25, 2025, in support of individuals with special needs. The event, taking place at Government House from 6:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m., aims to celebrate, uplift, and empower the differently abled community while raising funds for the Cecele Browne Integrated School. Mrs. Liburd expressed her passion for supporting those with challenges, emphasizing the importance of recognizing their value and potential in society. She encouraged the public to attend and contribute to the cause, highlighting the school’s critical role in providing education and care for differently abled students. The evening promises to be a meaningful celebration of inclusivity and community support.
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Prime Minister Drew lauds Yeoman Service of Sir Edmund W Lawrence ahead of State Funeral
The Government of Saint Kitts and Nevis has announced a State Funeral to commemorate the life and legacy of Sir Edmund Wickham Lawrence, former Governor-General and a pivotal figure in the nation’s development. The solemn event, scheduled for October 2, 2025, will include a Lying-in-State at Government House, a funeral procession through Basseterre, and a service at Wesley Methodist Church. The procession will pause at the St. Kitts-Nevis-Anguilla National Bank Limited, a testament to Sir Edmund’s transformative role in the country’s financial sector. Prime Minister Terrance Drew praised Sir Edmund as a visionary leader whose contributions laid the foundation for economic growth and financial empowerment. Sir Edmund’s legacy includes founding key institutions like National Caribbean Insurance and National Bank Trust, which continue to drive prosperity. The government invites the public to join in honoring this national icon, whose impact remains deeply embedded in the fabric of society.
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Official funeral arrangements announced for Former Governor-General Sir Edmund Wickham Lawrence
The Federal Cabinet of Saint Kitts and Nevis has officially announced the funeral arrangements for the late former Governor-General, His Excellency Sir Edmund Wickham Lawrence, GCMG, OBE, CSM, JP. Sir Edmund, who passed away on September 7, 2025, served as the nation’s third Governor-General from 2013 to 2015. In recognition of his significant contributions to the country, he will be honored with a State Funeral. The service is scheduled for Thursday, October 2, 2025, at 1:00 p.m. at the Wesley Methodist Church in Basseterre. A Lying-in-State ceremony will precede the funeral at Government House from 8:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m., offering the public an opportunity to pay their respects. Additionally, the Federal Cabinet has declared a national half-holiday on October 2 to allow citizens to participate in this solemn occasion. Books of Condolence will be available at Government Headquarters and Government House for those wishing to express their sympathies. Sir Edmund’s legacy is deeply rooted in the nation’s history, particularly through his pioneering role in economic development as the founding General Manager of the St. Kitts-Nevis-Anguilla National Bank. His tenure as Governor-General was marked by integrity, wisdom, and unwavering dedication to public service. The Government and people of Saint Kitts and Nevis extend their heartfelt condolences to his wife, Lady Lawrence, and the entire Lawrence family. As the nation prepares to bid farewell, it celebrates the life of a remarkable leader whose contributions have left an indelible mark on the country. May his soul rest in eternal peace.
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St. Clair Hodge Selected for FIVB’s “Beyond the Sport” Global Athlete Program
St. Clair Hodge, a prominent figure from St. Kitts and Nevis, has been chosen as part of the inaugural cohort of the FIVB (International Volleyball Federation) Volleyball Athletes’ Commission’s ‘Beyond the Sport’ Program. This prestigious initiative, scheduled from October 6 to 10 in Lausanne, Switzerland, aims to assist volleyball and beach volleyball players in transitioning from elite competition to the next phase of their professional lives. The program offers a week-long seminar focused on practical tools, expert insights, and networking opportunities tailored for athletes nearing retirement or recently retired. Hodge, who also represents the Eastern Caribbean Volleyball Association (ECVA), expressed his enthusiasm for the program, describing it as a rare and invaluable opportunity. ‘It’s an opportunity for retiring and retired volleyball players, whether beach or indoor, to network, upskill, and learn new things,’ he explained. Participants have already received preparatory coursework on personal branding, reputation, daily routines, and career accomplishments. Hodge believes these early exercises underscore the program’s commitment to helping athletes understand their strengths and position themselves for success. Beyond personal development, Hodge is eager to leverage the experience for the benefit of sport in St. Kitts and Nevis and the broader ECVA region. ‘This is a perfect opportunity to advance my understanding of global operations, make international connections, and see how things are done on the global stage,’ he said. Hodge’s selection is a testament to his influential role in local and regional sports. He currently serves as Chairman of the St. Kitts and Nevis Olympic Committee (SKNOC) Athletes’ Commission and sits on the executive of the St. Kitts and Nevis Amateur Volleyball Association (SKAVA). His involvement in the ‘Beyond the Sport’ Program places him among a pioneering group of global volleyball leaders preparing to shape life after playing.
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Another Woman Charged in Connection with Larceny at Rams Supermarket
The Royal St. Christopher and Nevis Police Force has reported the arrest and charging of a fourth woman in connection with a series of larceny incidents at Rams Supermarket in Bird Rock. Akelia Bassue of West Farm, St. Kitts, was formally charged with Simple Larceny on September 23, 2025, for an offense committed on September 22. This development follows the recent arrests of three other women last week, all linked to similar theft cases at the popular supermarket. Althea France of Bird Rock was arrested on September 17 and charged with two counts of larceny. Marsha Graham of Shadwell was apprehended on September 18 and charged with larceny related to an incident on September 14. Shermain Paul of Spooners, Cayon, was arrested on September 19 and charged with two counts of larceny and two counts of receiving stolen goods. The police have emphasized their commitment to addressing retail theft and ensuring public safety.
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Suriname’s President Criticizes UN’s effectiveness amid ongoing wars
In a powerful address at the 80th United Nations General Assembly in Manhattan, New York, Suriname’s President Jennifer Geerlings-Simons delivered a scathing critique of the UN’s inability to uphold its foundational mission of maintaining global peace and security. Against the backdrop of escalating conflicts in Ukraine and the Middle East, Geerlings-Simons highlighted the organization’s repeated failures to prevent wars, human rights violations, and widespread suffering. She pointed to the ongoing devastation in Ukraine due to Russia’s invasion and the persistent violence between Hamas and Israel, which has displaced millions and exacerbated humanitarian crises. The president also expressed concern over the Caribbean’s growing instability, particularly in Haiti, which she described as enduring a ‘perfect storm of suffering.’ Geerlings-Simons emphasized the need for dialogue to resolve conflicts and called for a reevaluation of the UN’s role and effectiveness over the next 80 years. She stressed that the organization’s success hinges on the commitment of all nations to implement agreed-upon resolutions and uphold their responsibilities. Additionally, she noted the shifting global landscape since the UN’s inception in 1945, asserting that poorer nations have now emerged as influential powers that can no longer be overlooked.
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Three women charged in RAM Supermarket larceny case
In a significant development in St. Kitts, three women have been formally charged in connection with a larceny incident at the renowned RAM’s Supermarket in Frigate Bay. The alleged thefts occurred on September 13 and 14, 2025, though specific details of the stolen items remain undisclosed by authorities. The arrests unfolded over several days, beginning with Althea France of Bird Rock, who was apprehended on September 17 and charged with two counts of larceny at the Basseterre Police Station. Marsha Graham of Shadwell was arrested on September 18 and later charged for her involvement in the September 14 incident. Shermain Paul of Spooners, Cayon, was arrested on September 19 and faced four charges—two for larceny and two for receiving stolen goods. Police investigations are ongoing, with further updates expected as the case progresses.
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Women’s empowerment takes spotlight as UN General Assembly opens
As the 80th United Nations General Assembly commenced on September 22, 2025, at the UN Headquarters in New York, the global spotlight turned to women’s empowerment and the ongoing struggle for gender equality. Caribbean leaders, including Antigua and Barbuda’s Prime Minister Gaston Browne and St. Kitts and Nevis’ Minister of Environment Joyelle Clarke, emphasized both the progress achieved and the persistent challenges in this critical area.
Prime Minister Browne highlighted his nation’s transition from ‘promise to action’ in advancing women’s rights, acknowledging significant strides while stressing the need for further efforts. He underscored the importance of gender equity as a cornerstone for justice, development, and sustainability, calling for equal pay, protection from violence, and increased investment in health and education. Browne also emphasized the pivotal role of women in family, community, and economic resilience, particularly in the face of climate change.
Minister Clarke, representing the Caribbean Community (CARICOM), painted a sobering picture of stalled progress and regression in key areas. She pointed to the disproportionate burdens borne by women and girls, including poverty, limited opportunities, and threats to safety and autonomy. Clarke cited alarming global statistics, such as the projected 8.1% of women and girls living in extreme poverty by 2030, the persistent wage gap, and the underrepresentation of women in political leadership. Despite these challenges, she commended CARICOM’s achievements, including the election of three female heads of government in the region.
Both leaders issued a clarion call for urgent global action. Prime Minister Browne pledged that Antigua and Barbuda would ‘stand firm, work harder, and speak louder’ to ensure the rights and dignity of women and girls are never compromised. He urged the international community to transform equity into equality, declaring, ‘The time for action is now.’
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Prime Minister Drew to Lead Delegation to the 80th United Nations General Assembly in New York
Basseterre, Saint Kitts and Nevis – September 22, 2025 – Prime Minister Dr. Terrance Drew is set to lead a high-level delegation to the 80th Session of the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA80) in New York City. The delegation, which includes key government officials such as Dr. Denzil L. Douglas, Minister of Foreign Affairs, and Dr. Joyelle Clarke, Minister of Sustainable Development, will participate in the UNGA80 High-Level Week. This annual event brings together global leaders to address urgent international challenges, including climate action, development financing, and global security. Prime Minister Drew is scheduled to engage in bilateral meetings with heads of state and deliver Saint Kitts and Nevis’ national address, highlighting the nation’s progress under the Sustainable Island State Agenda (SISA). This participation reflects the government’s dedication to multilateralism, sustainable development, and climate resilience.
