Hon Julian Fraser RA (R3) officially handed over Chairmanship of the OECS Council of Minister on Environmental Sustainability to Anitgua and Barbuda's Minister for Health, Wellness and Environment Sir Molwyn Joseph on April 29, 2025. Photo: CARICOM

Scenes from the 12th Regular Meeting of the OECS Council of Ministers on Environmental Sustainability in Antigua and Barbuda on April 29, 2025. Photo: OECS

Scenes from the 12th Regular Meeting of the OECS Council of Ministers on Environmental Sustainability. Photo: OECS

The Virgin Islands (VI) assumed the position in 2024, following the passage of Hurricane Beryl. The seat was held then by Premier Dr the Hon Natalio D. Wheatley (R7), who was Minister for Environment, Natural Resources and Climate Change. 

Grateful for your support- Hon Fraser

During the meeting, Hon Fraser indicated to his OECS colleagues that he had assumed the role of Minister for the Environment only six months ago, however, he was grateful for their “support throughout the term as we worked to advance initiatives and frameworks by the OECS Commission in the interest of our countries and territories, particularly the Road Map to 2030”. 

The 12th Regular Meeting of the OECS Council of Ministers on Environmental Sustainability was held at the University of the West Indies (UWI) Five Islands Campus in Antigua under the theme ‘Staying the Course in Perilous Times: Sustainable Transformation and Resilient Prosperity’. 

This theme, according to Hon Fraser, “Points to our commitment to adapting and thriving despite the uncertainties in the world economy.” 

Hon Fraser also pledged to support the new Chair of the Council, Sir Joseph, adding, “I wish him and the entire Council of Ministers all the best for a successful meeting today and a well-executed work program throughout this year.”