Martinique signals intent for increased integration with OECS

Martinique, a French Overseas territory, has expressed its desire for a more active and deeper collaboration with the Organisation of Eastern Caribbean States (OECS) in the aftermath of the 74th Meeting of the OECS Authority held in St Kitts and Nevis from February 14 – 15.

In a Communiqué released after the meeting, Serge Letchimy, the President of the Executive Council of the Territorial Authority of Martinique, announced Martinique’s desire to strengthen its association with the OECS.

He pointed to the immense potential for cooperation between the OECS Member States in various areas such as trade, education, health, and agriculture. Letchimy highlighted that the population of French associate Member States, including Martinique, was large enough to constitute a profitable trade market for the OECS and a gateway to France and Europe.

As an associate member of the OECS, Martinique, along with Guadeloupe, Anguilla, and the British Virgin Islands, are treated as full members for many of the Organisation’s activities.

The OECS heads discussed Martinique’s statement, and the Chairman of the OECS Authority, Dr Terrance Drew, made a declaration on the matter.

Dr Drew stated that Martinique’s engagement with the OECS requires an evolution of its capacities for action in terms of trade, connectivity, resilience to climate change, and energy policy.

This evolution is consistent with the European Union’s policy on the strengthening of autonomous normative power.

Dr Drew further added that Martinique is currently negotiating with the French Republic for autonomous adaptation and legislation within the framework of differentiation policies, which could pave the way for regional diplomacy that is useful and necessary for its future.

While remaining part of the French Republic and the European Union, Martinique wishes to be an effective player for its population and the OECS through its dual membership of the OECS and the European Union.

The OECS welcomes Martinique’s commitment to having deeper relations with the sub-regional group and will support the island’s efforts in its push for greater autonomy.