Ottawa, Canada – On April 30, 2024, in a significant diplomatic milestone, His Excellency Samuel Berridge, the newly appointed High Commissioner of St. Kitts and Nevis to Canada, presented his letter of introduction to Canadian Prime Minister, the Right Honourable Justin Trudeau affirming a commitment to strengthening relations and addressing pressing global challenges, such as rising sea levels and extreme weather events, exacerbated by climate change. The ceremonial event at West Block Parliament Hill marked the commencement of an era of closer collaboration and mutual understanding between St. Kitts and Nevis, and Canada.
After extending warm greetings from St. Kitts and Nevis’ Prime Minister, the Hon. Dr. Terrance Drew, and Minister of Foreign Affairs the Rt. Hon. Dr Denzil Douglas, Prime Minister Trudeau warmly welcomed High Commissioner Berridge and his spouse, Mrs Farryn Tamica ProsperBerridge, to Canada. Prime Minister Trudeau expressed his sincere wishes for a productive tour of duty, emphasizing the respect and hospitality extended to the new High Commissioner and his spouse.
Prime Minister Trudeau reiterated Canada’s commitment to continue working with St. Kitts and Nevis and the other CARICOM states to address challenges such as climate change adaptation and mitigation, and the current situation in Haiti. The discussions also covered key areas of mutual interest, notably development partnership, immigration, climate change, trade and investment, renewable energy, and the Blue and Orange Economies.
The discussions underscored the shared commitment to sustainable progress and collective action on the global stage, reinforcing the unity and common goal of both nations. High Commissioner Berridge pledged to build on the work covered by his predecessor, Sherry Tross, expanding and deepening the scope of bilateral engagement with Canada, with the aim of mutual benefit for both partners.