Family photo of the Heads of Delegation at the 56th Regular Session of the General Assembly of the
Organization of American States (OAS)
Washington, D.C., June 30, 2026 — The Federation of Saint Kitts and Nevis
reaffirmed its steadfast commitment to multilateralism, democratic governance, regional
security, and sustainable development during the 56th Regular Session of the
General Assembly of the Organization of American States (OAS), held in Panama
City, Republic of Panama, from June 22–24, 2026.
The Federation was represented by Her Excellency Ambassador Jacinth Henry-Martin
O.B.E, Permanent Representative of Saint Kitts and Nevis to the OAS, who delivered
the national statement on behalf of the Right Honourable Dr. Denzil Douglas, Minister of
Foreign Affairs.
Held under the theme, “The Americas United on the Bicentennial of the Amphictyonic
Congress of Panama,” the Assembly brought together Ministers of Foreign Affairs and
senior officials from across the hemisphere to reaffirm the shared values of democracy,
human rights, security, and cooperation. Member States adopted the Panama
Declaration on Firm Multilateralism, reaffirming their collective commitment to
democratic governance, the rule of law, human rights, and coordinated action to
address hemispheric challenges.
Delegation of Saint Kitts and Nevis at the 56th Regular Session of the General Assembly of the
Organization of American States (OAS)
In her national statement, Ambassador Henry-Martin emphasized that meaningful
regional progress can only be achieved through collective action.
“Multilateralism is not merely a diplomatic practice; it is the foundation upon which real
hemispheric unity is built and sustained”, Ambassador Henry-Martin stated.
The Ambassador underscored that no nation, regardless of its size, can confront today’s
interconnected challenges in isolation. She reaffirmed Saint Kitts and Nevis’ support for
strengthening the Organization of American States as a forum for dialogue, cooperation,
and consensus-building among the nations of the Americas.
Addressing the unique challenges facing Small Island Developing States (SIDS), the
Federation highlighted the urgent need for greater climate action and equitable access
to development financing. The statement reiterated that resilience financing remains an
existential necessity for vulnerable states and called for international financial systems
that recognize vulnerability as a key measure of development need.
Ambassador and Permanent Representative to the Organization of American States, Her Excellency
Jacinth Henry-Martin O.B.E.
Saint Kitts and Nevis also welcomed the Assembly’s emphasis on strengthening
democratic institutions, protecting human rights, and enhancing hemispheric security.
The Federation supported renewed regional cooperation to combat transnational
organized crime, illicit firearms trafficking, narcotics smuggling, cybercrime, and human
trafficking, while reaffirming its continued support for regional and international efforts to
restore security, democratic governance, and humanitarian conditions in Haiti.
On behalf of the Federation of Saint Kitts and Nevis, Ambassador further welcomed
progress toward the proposed Declaration on the Rights of Peoples of African Descent
in the Americas, reaffirming its commitment to advancing equality, justice, and human
dignity throughout the hemisphere.
Concluding her address, Ambassador Henry-Martin urged Member States to translate
shared aspirations into meaningful action, reminding delegates:
“History will judge us not by the declarations we adopt, but by our demonstrated unity
and our willingness to act together in addressing the defining challenges of our time.”
The Federation of Saint Kitts and Nevis welcomes the successful conclusion of the 56th
Regular Session of the OAS General Assembly and remains committed to working with
Member States to advance a hemisphere that is more democratic, resilient, secure,
inclusive, and sustainable. Through principled diplomacy and constructive engagement,
Saint Kitts and Nevis will continue to advocate for policies that promote peace,
sustainable development, climate resilience, and shared prosperity for all the peoples of
the Americas.
