The new Permanent Representative of St. Kitts and Nevis to the Organization of American States (OAS), Jacinth Henry-Martin, presented her credentials to OAS Secretary General Luis Almagro in a ceremony today at the headquarters of the hemispheric Organization in Washington, DC.
In her speech, Ambassador Henry-Martin reiterated “the unwavering commitment” of her country “in the values and goals to the OAS.” She also emphasized that St. Kitts and Nevis “is fully dedicated to strengthening the four pillars -democracy, human rights, security and development- upon which this Organization was founded, recognizing the vital role the OAS plays in giving a voice to those who have been historically marginalized, especially on matters of global heft where the cumulative clarion call of small states can be elevated for attention at the hemispheric and global table”.
For his part, Secretary General Almagro, congratulated the Government of St. Kitts and Nevis “for its commitment to electoral justice, democratic institutionality, education and entrepreneurial empowerment initiatives for its people, among other focus areas, which sets an example of a peaceful and secure democracy in the region”. Addressing Ambassador Henry-Martin directly, he added: “When the region is facing threats to democratic peace and lacking respect to national and international laws, we have no doubt that your representation of your country’s vision will seek to develop solutions geared towards promoting solidarity with human rights, the rule of law and good governance in the Americas.”
Ambassador Henry-Martin previously represented her country at the OAS between 2011 and 2015. Following which, she was Coordinator of the Coordinating Office for the Offices and Units of the General Secretariat in the Member States of the OAS, position she held until the first semester of 2023.