ROAD TOWN, Tortola, Sept. 26, 2014 – OECS Ministers responsible for environmental portfolios will meet here next week for their first meeting, since the Revised Treaty of Basseterre came into force.
The meeting will open on Tuesday September 30, at Levity Stoutt College with a high-level ceremony to be addressed by Premier of the British Virgin Islands Orlando Smith, as well as Governor John Duncan.
The opening will be followed by a one-day meeting on October 1The meeting’s agenda includes topics on ocean governance, energy and climate change in addition to other relevant policy issues related to natural disasters, and Small Islands Development States (SIDS).
Officials in the BVI confirm that preparations are well underway for the Meeting, which will be preceded by the opening of an exhibition on climate change on Monday September 29.
Commenting on preparations, Premier Smith expressed enthusiasm at the potential opportunities that can be gained from the meeting, especially in strengthening relationships with other OECS Members.
Meanwhile officials at the OECS Commission note that all Member States will be represented at the meeting, including five ministers responsible for environment in their various governments.
As usual, ministers are also expected to hold talks with development partners and donor agencies on funding needs for undertaking sustainable development related projects and programmes in the region.
