June 7, 2026 | Regional News
Saint Lucia will welcome regional leaders next month as it hosts the 51st Regular Meeting of the Conference of Heads of Government of the Caribbean Community (CARICOM) from July 5 to 8, 2026.
The high-level gathering will take place in Gros Islet under the chairmanship of Saint Lucia’s Prime Minister, Philip J. Pierre, who officially assumes the role of CARICOM Chair on July 1.
The meeting will commence with an opening ceremony on July 5 at 4:00 p.m. Eastern Caribbean Time at Sandals Saint Lucia. The ceremony will feature addresses from Prime Minister Pierre, outgoing CARICOM Chair and Prime Minister of Saint Kitts and Nevis Dr. Terrance Drew, and CARICOM Secretary-General Dr. Carla Barnett.
The opening proceedings will be streamed live across CARICOM’s social media platforms, allowing citizens throughout the region to follow the event.
Following the opening ceremony, Heads of Government will engage in a series of business sessions from July 6 to 8, where they will deliberate on key regional issues and priorities affecting the Caribbean Community. Discussions are expected to focus on matters critical to regional integration, economic development, security, climate resilience, and other pressing concerns facing member states.
A closing press conference is scheduled for July 8, where leaders are expected to provide updates on decisions taken and outline the way forward on major regional initiatives.
In preparation for the conference, CARICOM will launch a dedicated Knowledge Hub by June 10. The platform will provide stakeholders and the public with access to important information and updates related to the meeting.
Ahead of the official opening, Saint Lucia will also host the 19th CARICOM Road Run/Walk on July 5. The annual event brings together both amateur and professional athletes from across the region in a celebration of health, wellness, and regional unity.
Organizers say the activity highlights the important role of sport and physical education in improving quality of life while fostering camaraderie among Caribbean citizens.
The meeting is expected to attract regional leaders, government officials, representatives of regional institutions, and members of the international community as CARICOM continues to advance its agenda for sustainable growth and development.