July 4, 2023
The Organisation of Eastern Caribbean States (OECS) Commission and econext, a Not-for-Profit Association based in Canada, have joined forces to promote sustainable development in the region. On May 17, 2023, the two organisations officially signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to establish a framework for cooperation and strategic alignment.
The MoU highlights the OECS Commission and econext’s shared commitment to tackling major issues and seizing opportunities in fields like business ecosystem development, the blue and green economy, and marks an important turning point in their collaboration. This partnership intends to make it easier to partner for the implementation of projects that will advance the region’s aspirations for sustainable development.
Under this MoU, both the OECS Commission and econext are committed to encouraging mutual understanding, cooperation, and strategic alignment. The collaboration will involve sharing agendas of common interests, pooling resources and expertise when appropriate, and exchanging knowledge, information, and ideas.
Director General of the OECS Dr. Didacus Jules echoed this when signing the MoU. According to him,
‘’This collaboration will do a lot in helping to advance the agenda set by the OECS for the upcoming triennium. It will provide us with a modality for the exchange of ideas,personnel, technology and experience.’’
Chief Operating Officer and and Director, International Business of econext, Ms. Abbie Hodder, expressed enthusiasm about the partnership, saying,
“This is the beginning of a strong interregional collaboration for the benefit of both of our regions, so I am exited to get started… It is an opportunity for us to reinvigorate the relationships that are already very strong within the region.”
The MoU signing is expected to unlock new avenues for progress, enabling the OECS Commission and econext to tackle pressing issues in the region, including climate change, marine conservation, and renewable energy.