Prime Minister Dr. Godwin Friday has called for deeper collaboration between St. Vincent and the Grenadines and its international development partners as the country seeks to accelerate economic growth, strengthen resilience and address ongoing development challenges.
The appeal came during the opening of the Government of St. Vincent and the Grenadines–United Nations Development Partners Roundtable, where representatives of the United Nations, bilateral and multilateral agencies, government officials and development stakeholders gathered to discuss national priorities and opportunities for cooperation.
Addressing the forum, Prime Minister Friday described the Roundtable as an important opportunity to align international support with the country’s most pressing development needs and long-term aspirations.
The Prime Minister reflected on the series of major challenges that have affected St. Vincent and the Grenadines in recent years, including the COVID-19 pandemic, the eruption of La Soufrière volcano, the impact of Hurricane Beryl and persistent global inflationary pressures.
He noted that these events have placed considerable strain on the country’s economy and public finances, while highlighting the importance of strategic partnerships in helping the nation recover and build resilience.
Despite these challenges, Dr. Friday said his administration remains committed to a programme of national transformation focused on lowering the cost of living, creating employment opportunities, strengthening resilience and placing the country on a sustainable growth trajectory.
Among the Government’s key priorities, the Prime Minister identified the transition to renewable energy, expanding opportunities for young people and women through skills development, and maintaining sound fiscal management to ensure long-term economic stability.
Dr. Friday also emphasized the need for international financing mechanisms that better reflect the realities faced by Small Island Developing States, particularly their vulnerability to climate change, natural disasters and external economic shocks.
He argued that access to development financing remains critical for countries such as St. Vincent and the Grenadines as they work to strengthen infrastructure, improve public services and build more resilient economies.
“The challenges before us are significant, but so too are the opportunities,” the Prime Minister told participants. “To go far, it is best to travel not alone but together.”
The Prime Minister expressed confidence that the discussions would strengthen partnerships, improve coordination among development agencies and help mobilize the resources needed to advance national priorities.
The United Nations Development Partners Roundtable forms part of ongoing efforts to deepen cooperation between the Government and international partners while identifying practical solutions to support sustainable development and improve the lives of Vincentians.