External Affairs Minister congratulates Foreign Minister Dr. Denzil Douglas, the government and people as the Caribbean federation marks 43 years of independence
Global Times News | INDIA ; GTNS
SEPTEMBER 19, 2026 , NEW DELHI — External Affairs Minister Dr. S. Jaishankar on Saturday extended India’s warm greetings to Saint Kitts and Nevis on the Caribbean federation’s 43rd Independence Day, addressing his message to Foreign Minister Dr. Denzil Llewellyn Douglas, the government and people of the country.
In a message shared on September 19, Jaishankar conveyed India’s best wishes to Dr. Douglas and the people of Saint Kitts and Nevis and underlined New Delhi’s continuing interest in the bilateral relationship.
“Best wishes to FM Dr. Denzil Douglas, the Government and people of Saint Kitts and Nevis on their Independence Day. Value our close cooperation,” Jaishankar said in his message.
43 YEARS OF INDEPENDENCE
Saint Kitts and Nevis became independent on September 19, 1983. The twin-island federation is observing its 43rd Independence Anniversary in 2026.
The national celebrations are being held under the theme “One People, One Vision, Endless Possibility: Independence 43.” Events include national ceremonies, cultural activities and the traditional Independence Ceremonial Parade.
The capital of the federation is Basseterre, located on the island of Saint Kitts.
WHO IS DR. DENZIL DOUGLAS?
Dr. Denzil Llewellyn Douglas is currently Saint Kitts and Nevis’ Minister of Foreign Affairs, International Trade, Industry, Commerce and Consumer Affairs, Economic Development and Investment.
He previously served as Prime Minister from 1995 until 2015 and returned to government as Foreign Affairs Minister following the 2022 election. The government’s official biography records his long political career and his role in foreign affairs and economic development.
INDIA–SAINT KITTS AND NEVIS TIES ENTERED A NEW PHASE
Jaishankar’s message comes at a time when India-Saint Kitts and Nevis relations have received a new diplomatic push.
On April 7, 2026, Saint Kitts and Nevis officially opened its High Commission in New Delhi, establishing a resident diplomatic mission in India. Jaishankar attended the inauguration as a special guest, while Dr. Denzil Douglas was present on behalf of Saint Kitts and Nevis.
The opening was described by the Saint Kitts and Nevis government as an important milestone in South-South cooperation and a platform for expanding practical engagement between the two countries.
Saint Kitts and Nevis’ government said the new diplomatic presence in New Delhi was intended to help move relations from dialogue towards practical cooperation and opportunities for citizens.
COOPERATION BEYOND DIPLOMACY
The relationship between India and Saint Kitts and Nevis covers diplomatic and development cooperation, with opportunities for engagement in areas such as health, digital capacity, disaster response and development projects.
The opening of the High Commission provides a permanent diplomatic channel through which both countries can pursue these areas more systematically.
Saint Kitts and Nevis is also a member of the Caribbean Community (CARICOM), giving the bilateral relationship a wider regional dimension.
INDIA’S MESSAGE: CONTINUITY IN THE PARTNERSHIP
Jaishankar’s Independence Day message does not announce a new bilateral agreement or specific project. Instead, its significance lies in reaffirming India’s interest in maintaining close relations with the Caribbean federation.
His reference to “close cooperation” comes only months after the opening of the Saint Kitts and Nevis High Commission in New Delhi, making the message part of a period of visible diplomatic engagement between the two countries.
For Saint Kitts and Nevis, the 43rd Independence Day is being observed with a focus on national identity, unity and the country’s future.
For India, the occasion provides an opportunity to reiterate the importance New Delhi places on its relationship with the Caribbean nation.
Global Times News | INDIA ; GTNS NEWS DESK
SEPTEMBER 19, 2026