CARICOM Secretary-General Dr Carla Barnett has congratulated St Lucia on its 43rd anniversary of independence which it celebrates on today (February 22).

In her message to St Lucia Prime Minister Philip J. Pierre, Barnett noted the country’s steadfast and committed pursuit of development.

“During the past 43 years, St Lucia has been steadfast and committed to its pursuit of development of the country and people,” she said.

“St Lucia’s global contribution is widely recognised and exemplified by its two Nobel Laureates, and these feats are aptly reflected through the theme chosen to commemorate this anniversary, ‘Douvan Ansanm – Celebrating our People’.”

Barnett added that St Lucia’s role as the lead country for sustainable development (including environment and disaster management and water) in the CARICOM Quasi-Cabinet has been of great value to the Community.

“On congratulating St Lucia, I reaffirm my own commitment and that of the staff of the CARICOM Secretariat to working with you and your Government to realise the aspirations of your nation,” she added.

“CARICOM is pleased to join with the Government and People of St Lucia in celebrating this anniversary, and extends best wishes for the continued progress of St Lucia.”