Guyana congratulates St Lucia as island marks 47 years of Independence

President Dr Irfaan Ali has extended congratulations to the people and Government of St Lucia on the occasion of the island nation’s 47th Independence Anniversary. In a statement on Sunday, President Ali said, “On behalf of the Government and People of the Co-operative Republic of Guyana and on my own behalf, I extend warmest congratulations to Prime Minister (PM) Philip J Pierre and the Government and People of St Lucia on the occasion of your 47th Independence Anniversary.”

He added that Guyana remains committed to strengthening the bonds of friendship and cooperation between the two nations as “we continue to work together within Caricom for the advancement of our region. Happy Independence Day, St Lucia.” St Lucia is marking the anniversary of its political independence from Britain with the theme “Douvan Ansanm: Nourishing Our People, Strengthening Our Nation”, which includes a series of events such as a military parade and a national independence rally in Micoud, a southeast coastal village, according to the Caribbean Media Corporation (CMC). PM Pierre highlighted the significance of the milestone, noting that independence requires daily effort. “Forty-seven years ago, we raised our flag with pride and with faith in ourselves. Independence is the daily work of building a country that cares for its people, protects its values and believes in its own strength,” Pierre said. He added that the flag symbolises the resilience, unity and enduring belief of St Lucians in their nation. The Director General of the Organisation of Eastern Caribbean States (OECS), Dr Didacus Jules, also emphasised the importance of strategic planning and regional unity. “Independence is not only about freedom from colonial rule. It is about the capacity to navigate a complex world with strategic balance. If ‘Douvan Ansanm’ means anything in 2026, it must mean national consensus on the fundamentals: our sovereignty, our democracy and inclusive development,” Jules is quoted by CMC as saying. Jules, the CMC report stated, further highlighted the role of regional solidarity in overcoming challenges faced by small island states. “Through the OECS, St Lucia is not alone. Our integration movement was born out of necessity, and it can only be sustained by solidarity. A strong St Lucia strengthens the OECS. A resilient St Lucia strengthens Caricom. A united St Lucia strengthens the Caribbean,” he added.