CASTRIES, St Lucia (CMC) – The Organisation of Eastern Caribbean States (OECS) says it signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with three prominent partners as the sub-regional grouping moves toward advancing sustainable development, infrastructure innovation and clean energy collaboration across the Eastern Caribbean.

The St Lucia-based OECS Commission said that the MoU has been signed with the Trinidad-based Globus Energy Group Trinidad Limited, the Barbados-based Caribbean Tourism Organisation (CTO) and the United States (US) based AECOM Technical Services, Incorporation.

The commission said the agreement outlines a joint commitment to develop and implement the Framework Project, which will serve as the foundation for future cooperation.

It said that through this project, the parties will explore shared opportunities, pool resources and establish clear processes for delivering impactful outcomes in energy, infrastructure and tourism-related initiatives. This includes innovations such as a focus on shore-to-ship power (shore power) systems for cruise berths located within the ports of participating OECS nations.

Additional stakeholders, including cruise lines, port and utility operators, and other entities and strategic partners relevant to the region’s development, are expected to be invited to join or engage with the project as it progresses.

The OECS Commission says this MoU sets the stage for developing a comprehensive framework agreement that will outline the roles, responsibilities and resource commitments of each party.

It also includes a plan to identify mutually beneficial opportunities and efficient methods for implementation. The collaboration aims to accelerate regional progress in key sectors while ensuring alignment with the OECS’s development goals.

OECS Director General, Dr Didacus Jules said that the MoU represents a shared vision to build resilient, innovative and sustainable societies in the Eastern Caribbean.

Dr Jules said it reflects the strength of regional and international collaboration in tackling complex development challenges and seizing strategic opportunities.

“We recognise that true economic transformation requires innovation, diversification and green growth. And, in fact, I may add, in these times of poly crisis and geopolitical instability, the reinvention of that economy, with all of the pressures that we face, is even more critical a strategic priority.

“This initiative enables us to reimagine the tourism sector, not just as a revenue generator, but as a driver of sustainable energy solutions and technological modernisation. In doing so, we add value to one of our region’s most vital industries while positioning ourselves as global leaders in sustainable port infrastructure,” Dr Jules added.

The OECS groups the islands of Antigua and Barbuda, Dominica, Grenada, St Lucia, St Vincent and the Grenadines, St Kitts and Nevis, Montserrat, the British Virgin Islands and Anguilla.