OECS Geneva Mission Hosts OECS Day Event at World Trade Organization

The sweet tones of steelpan music rang through the marble halls of the World Trade Organization (WTO) on Wednesday, June 18, as the Organisation of Eastern Caribbean States (OECS) Mission in Geneva hosted an event to celebrate OECS Day. This event formed part of the OECS 44th Anniversary activities, which spanned across the region.

The OECS Mission in Geneva held a musical recital featuring a well-known pan artiste from Antigua and Barbuda, Khan Cordice. The recital was designed to portray authentic talent from the OECS and represent the joy and vibrance associated with the region for the OECS 44th Anniversary commemoration.

It was attended by many ambassadors and delegates from the United Nations and the WTO. Notably, the special guest, Director General of the WTO, Dr Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, also made an appearance.

Intrigued by the Caribbean's most esteemed musical instrument and the exceptional performance by Khan Cordice, Dr. Okonjo-Iweala approached the performer for a one-on-one tutorial and explanation, learning about the distinctive sounds, tuning, and mallets. Khan Cordice explained the origins of the pan instrument and gave an impromptu lesson to Dr. Okonjo-Iweala, at the end of which she was able to play "Mary Had A Little Lamb".

Many other attendees, including the ambassadors of the European Union, India, Portugal, the Russian Federation, and Panama, expressed fascination with the pan instrument and thoroughly delighted and enjoyed the music.

The event featured opening remarks from Ambassador Colin Murdoch, Head of the OECS Mission in Geneva, and then a video address by the OECS Director General, Dr. Didacus Jules. He said:

"Tonight, through music—the universal language of the human spirit—we offer not only celebration, but also connection. For just as the notes of a symphony find harmony in diversity, so too does the OECS find strength in its union of sovereign united nations."

Dr. Jules thanked the ambassadors and other delegates at the recital for their friendship, their partnership, and their enduring belief in the promise of the OECS region.

The recital also featured a supporting performance by Andrea Amanti, the United Nations official concert pianist, and the event was followed by a reception.