WTO Deputy Director-General, Johanna Hill visited the Organization of Eastern Caribbean States (OECS) from August 19 – 21, 2024, with stops in Grenada and Saint Lucia. During her visit, Hill engaged with public and private sector officials, discussing the WTO’s fisheries subsidies agreement, trade in services, investment facilitation, and WTO reforms.
Key Meetings in Grenada
In Grenada, Hill met with key officials including Foreign Affairs Minister Joseph Andall, Economic Development Minister Lennox Andrews. She also met Ronald Theodore, CEO of the Grenada Investment and Development Corporation. Discussions covered a broad range of topics, including agriculture, food security, and the role of the WTO in supporting climate action. Additionally, Hill met with Patricia Clarke, Permanent Secretary for Trade and Export Development, to discuss ongoing trade initiatives and investment opportunities in the region.
Strengthening Cooperation in Saint Lucia
She continued her discussions in Saint Lucia, where Prime Minister Phillip J. Pierre, also the OECS Authority Chairman, emphasized the OECS’ commitment to the WTO. “We see the WTO as our protection against arbitrary and unfair terms of trade,” Pierre stated.
Hill also held talks with Saint Lucia’s Commerce Minister Emma Hippolyte and OECS Commission Director-General Dr. Didacus Jules. She underscored the importance of collaboration, particularly in agriculture, digital trade, climate change, and ongoing trade negotiations. Hill and Hippolyte discussed efforts to enhance trade facilitation and the role of commerce in boosting regional economic resilience.
WTO’s Role for Small Island States
Jules highlighted the WTO’s significance for small island states like the OECS, which rely on the organization for stability in global trade. Hill expressed for commitment to deepening cooperation with the OECS through continued technical assistance and engagement.
Source/Photo Credit: Organization of Eastern Caribbean States
