Saint Kitts and Nevis and Guyana have taken a step to strengthen bilateral relations following the signing of three agreements covering security, agriculture and government modernisation.

The memoranda of understanding were signed on April 8 during Prime Minister Dr Terrance Drew’s visit to Guyana.

The agreements focus on non-lethal defence and security cooperation, agriculture and food security, and government modernisation, establishing frameworks for collaboration in areas considered critical to the development priorities of both countries.

Drew said the agreements reflect a shared commitment to delivering tangible benefits for citizens.

“I’ve selected what I think would have solid impacting St Kitts and Nevis,” he said, adding that the focus is on ensuring the agreements are implemented in a strategic and effective way.

On agriculture and food security, Drew highlighted the importance of strengthening local production and reducing reliance on external markets, particularly in the face of rising global food prices and supply chain challenges.

“As you can see, the cost of food across the world… there’s a lot to learn, but there’s also opportunities, because we want to buy food as well. You have it here in Guyana. Why buy it from outside the region?” he said.

He added that the country’s tourism sector provides a steady market for regional agricultural products, while increased domestic production can improve resilience and affordability.

Turning to government modernisation, Drew welcomed Guyana’s support in helping Saint Kitts and Nevis leverage technology to improve governance, project oversight and decision-making.

He said access to real-time data and modern digital systems can strengthen public administration and accelerate national development.In addition to the agreements, Drew formalised Saint Kitts and Nevis’ membership in the Global Biodiversity Alliance, an initiative launched by Guyana’s President Dr Mohamed Irfaan Ali.

The move aligns with the Federation’s Sustainable Island State Agenda, which focuses on protecting ecosystems and promoting sustainable development.

“Biodiversity fits exactly to what our national agenda is. We want to create a sustainable island. Biodiversity is fundamental, so for us this is natural,” Drew said.

He also indicated that, in his capacity as chairman of CARICOM, he will encourage wider regional participation in the initiative.

Ali welcomed the strengthened partnership, reaffirming Guyana’s commitment to supporting regional development through cooperation and shared resources.

He said the agreements mark the beginning of deeper collaboration in areas aimed at improving the lives of Caribbean people.

The visit and the agreements highlight Saint Kitts and Nevis’ continued push to strengthen regional partnerships and advance national development priorities.