OECS Commission Commemorates St. Vincent & the Grenadines on its 45th Anniversary of Independence

The Organisation of Eastern Caribbean States (OECS) Commission proudly hosted a virtual flag-raising ceremony today to commemorate the 45th Anniversary of the Independence of St. Vincent and the Grenadines. This year’s celebration is themed “45 Years of Togetherness, Prosperity and Perseverance.”

The event featured distinguished speakers, including Dr. the Honourable Ralph Gonsalves, Prime Minister of St. Vincent and the Grenadines, and Dr. Didacus Jules, Director General of the OECS. Both leaders emphasised the significance of unity and progress in the region.

“We have our strengths and possibilities and we have our weaknesses and limitations. But through it all, we have been able to build a magnificent component of our Caribbean civilization at a solid material level,” stated Prime Minister Gonsalves. “Forty-five years of becoming more prosperous, more secure, we’ve persevered and we have uplifted ourselves.”

The ceremony featured the flag-raising conducted by the Saint Lucia Cadet Corps officers, accompanied by the national anthem of St. Vincent and the Grenadines. Reverend Father Albert Aaron Smith offered a prayer, invoking blessings for the nation.

Director General Dr. Jules reflected on St. Vincent and the Grenadines’ resilience as the country has faced many challenges in recent times,

“Togetherness has been your strength, prosperity your goal, and perseverance your guide. As you look to the future, you stand on firm ground, ready to embrace the opportunities and overcome the challenges that lie ahead.”

As the ceremony concluded, the OECS Commission expressed gratitude to all participants, including government officials, the staff of the OECS Commission, and the nationals of St. Vincent and the Grenadines.