CASTRIES, St. Lucia, CMC – Prime Minister Philip J. Pierre is leading an official delegation to Venezuela for a one-day visit to strengthen bilateral relations between the two countries.
A government statement said the visit “marks a pivotal moment in the resurgence of cooperative efforts between the two nations following a brief hiatus in bilateral relations.”
It said that Prime Minister Pierre is set to engage in discussions and initiatives to deepen cooperation in various productive sectors, foster goodwill, and reinvigorate the bonds of friendship that have connected St. Lucia and Venezuela for decades.
The statement said that discussions will be held on upgrading the PetroCaribe program,” ensuring energy security, and promoting sustainable development in St. Lucia.”
Under the PetroCaribe initiative, member countries that purchase oil from Venezuela pay for a certain percentage of the fat, depending on world oil prices, within 90 days, and the remainder is delivered over 25 years with an interest rate of one percent annually.
Another component of PetroCaribe is the ALBA-Caribe Fund, which is available to member countries for social programs and development projects such as the construction of refineries and power plants and the development of alternative energy sources.
In the area of education and language training, the statement said initiatives will be explored to enhance Spanish language education in St. Lucia and provide educational opportunities for St. Lucian students in Venezuela.
“The visit seeks to deepen cultural ties through initiatives in the music and arts sectors, fostering a stronger connection between the people of both nations,” the statement said, adding that “both countries will discuss strategies to expand trade relations and promote Pierre is being accompanied by External Affairs Minister Alva Baptiste and Senior Minister for Infrastructure, Stephenson King. They are due to return on Saturday.
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