The Premier of the Virgin Islands, Dr. the Honourable Natalio D. Wheatley (R7), has left the territory and is currently in Antigua and Barbuda to participate in the 78th Meeting of the Organisation of Eastern Caribbean States (OECS) Authority, taking place from June 21 to June 22, 2026. Photo: Internet Source

During this meeting, the Heads of Government of OECS Member States will discuss key regional priorities, including economic development, regional integration, climate resilience, security, food and energy security, freedom of movement, and enhanced cooperation in areas such as health, education, and digital transformation. Photo: Internet Source

During this meeting, the Heads of Government of OECS Member States discussed key regional priorities, including economic development, regional integration, climate resilience, security, food and energy security, freedom of movement, and enhanced cooperation in areas such as health, education, and digital transformation.

Antigua PM assumes Chairmanship

Premier Wheatley joined fellow regional leaders for the Opening Ceremony on Sunday, June 21, 2026, where the Prime Minister of Antigua and Barbuda, Honourable Gaston A. Browne, officially assumed the Chairmanship of the OECS Authority from the Prime Minister of Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, Hon Dr Godwin L. Friday.

Addressing the 78th Meeting of the OECS Authority after assuming the Chairmanship of the regional body, Prime Minister Browne argued that the OECS must look beyond its traditional markets and strengthen economic and commercial relations with its Spanish-speaking neighbours, particularly Panama.

Among the major developments from the meeting, OECS leaders are seeking high-level discussions with the European Union before the end of the year amid concerns that visa-free access to the Schengen Area could be restricted for countries operating Citizenship by Investment (CBI) programmes. 

Leaders of the Organisation of Eastern Caribbean States (OECS) have also agreed to establish a high-level advisory team to help guide negotiations with the United States over a request for member states to accept deportees who are not citizens of their countries.