In a bid to ensure that voices across the Federation shape St. Kitts and Nevis’ fiscal future, Prime Minister Dr. Terrance Drew emphasised the government’s dedication to inclusivity and collaboration at the Budget 2025 National Forum.
Held today, 30th October, 2024, at the St. Kitts Marriott Ballroom, the forum brought together representatives from public and private sectors, civil society, and other key groups to discuss priorities for the nation’s upcoming budget.
“We are here as stakeholders, demonstrating our commitment to the advancement of our Federation,” Prime Minister Dr. Drew stated in his keynote address.
He underscored the importance of documenting diverse perspectives to ensure that both present and future generations feel represented in the government’s 2025 fiscal agenda.
“This exercise ensures that all perspectives are documented and all voices are heard,” he said, adding that innovation, inclusivity, and sustainability would define the nation’s path forward.
Dr. Drew also highlighted the importance of resilience and forward-thinking as St. Kitts and Nevis advances toward becoming a sustainable island state.
“Innovation is at the heart of a country’s growth potential, allowing for new ideas, solutions, and technologies that can unlock opportunities and address the evolving challenges we face,” he noted.
The Prime Minister’s remarks set the tone for a day focused on strategic growth and socio-economic development.
The theme for the forum, Innovation, Inclusivity, and Sustainability: Our Path Forward, was expounded upon by key government officials, including Versilie Francis, Director of the Fiscal Affairs and Policy Unit in the Ministry of Finance.
Director Francis noted that the forum’s input would be invaluable for formulating effective growth strategies and enhancing efficiency in public services.
“This year’s theme speaks to the transformative vision that we must embrace to strengthen our economy and shape the future for the wellbeing of our people here in the Federation of St. Kitts and Nevis,” said Francis.
Presentations throughout the forum featured insights from the St. Kitts and Nevis Chamber of Industry and Commerce and the Eastern Caribbean Central Bank (ECCB), with discussions covering key areas such as tourism, agriculture, and infrastructure.
During the afternoon session, Ministry of Finance officials joined stakeholders in exploring ways to address challenges and seize opportunities in these vital sectors.
The open forum also allowed members of the public to share suggestions, reinforcing the government’s commitment to community-driven governance.
With an agenda shaped by collective input, the Government of St. Kitts and Nevis aims to present a 2025 budget that captures the aspirations and ambitions of all its people.
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