(Caribbean Community (CARICOM) Secretariat, Turkeyen, Greater Georgetown, Guyana) - CARICOM Secretary-General, Dr Carla Barnett has congratulated Saint Lucia on its Forty-Sixth Anniversary of Independence on 22 February, recognizing the occasion as a moment to reflect on the nation’s remarkable growth and development.

In a congratulatory message to Prime Minister of Saint Lucia, Hon. Philip J. Pierre, Dr Barnett highlighted this year’s Anniversary theme, Douvan Ansanm-Health and Well-Being for a Prosperous Nation, which reflects Saint Lucia’s commitment to the holistic development of its people, and the essential link between a healthy population and national prosperity.

The Secretary-General commended Saint Lucia’s advancements in education, healthcare, and sustainable development as well as its efforts to preserve its unique heritage and promote cultural diversity.

She also noted the country’s leadership in environmental protection, including the preservation of marine and forest ecosystems and its active role in global climate change initiatives.

“The Caribbean Community acknowledges Saint Lucia's contributions to the regional integration movement as a committed Member of CARICOM. On this Forty-Sixth Anniversary of Independence, I reaffirm the commitment of the Caribbean Community to continue working alongside the Government and People of Saint Lucia in pursuit of a prosperous and secure future for all,” Dr Barnett said in her message.

The full message reads as follows:

“Prime Minister, on behalf of the Caribbean Community (CARICOM), I am pleased to convey my warmest congratulations to the Government and People of Saint Lucia on your Forty-Sixth Anniversary of Independence.

Your celebration under this year’s theme, “Douvan Ansanm-Health and Well-Being for a Prosperous Nation”, underscores Saint Lucia’s commitment to the holistic development of its People, and the vital connection between a healthy populace and national prosperity. Moreover, this year’s inspiring independence anthem by the artist, Sylvinus Charles, serves as a powerful reminder of the exceptional creativity, pride, shared history and aspirations that unite all Saint Lucians.  

This milestone allows for reflections on Saint Lucia’s remarkable journey of growth and development, and the significant strides made in sectors such as education, healthcare, and sustainable development. We commend your nation’s efforts in preserving your unique heritage and promoting cultural diversity. Moreover, Saint Lucia has emerged as a leader in environmental protection, actively safeguarding its marine and forest ecosystems, and championing global initiatives to combat climate change. 

The Caribbean Community acknowledges Saint Lucia's contributions to the regional integration movement as a committed Member of CARICOM. On this Forty-Sixth Anniversary of Independence, I reaffirm the commitment of the Caribbean Community to continue working alongside the Government and People of Saint Lucia in pursuit of a prosperous and secure future for all. May your celebrations be filled with peace, joy and unity as you mark the achievements and rich heritage of Saint Lucia.”

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