London, 20th September 2018
Since Sunday, 16th September, the St. Kitts and Nevis High Commission in London has been actively
participating in commemorative celebrations to mark the 35th Anniversary of Independence of the
Federation of St. Kitts and Nevis. These started with Services of Thanksgiving in Leeds and Leicester.
On Monday, 17th September, the High Commissioner hosted an Arts and Craft Exhibition as part of the
celebration and to showcase the skills, talents and entrepreneurial spirit of the people of St. Kitts and
Nevis. His Excellency Dr Kevin M. Isaac articulated that he hopes that this will be an ongoing activity
to build awareness for our local artists and to introduce their craft to a newer and wider audience.
The event was attended by people from different sectors, including diplomats through whom High
Commissioner Isaac hope to build and expand the St. Kitts and Nevis Brand in the areas of cultural and
trade diplomacy.
On September 18th
, His Excellency Dr Isaac joined a large number of nationals at Westminster Abbey
in London for an evening of prayer and thanksgiving, as the Federation’s flag flew above the Abbey.
High Commissioner Isaac later hosted a dinner Reception at the Headquarters of the International
Maritime Organization (IMO) for scores of nationals from cities across the United Kingdom such as
Birmingham, Cardiff, Leeds, Leicester, London, Luton, Manchester, Nottingham, and Slough. The High
Commission also hosted a rum-tasting event to showcase the diverse flavours of the islands’ growing
rum industry.
In his remarks, High Commissioner Isaac spoke of the positive and transformational strides St. Kitts
and Nevis had made in the 35 years. He reminded nationals that “although we have a lot for which
to be thankful, we also have a responsibility to continue to answer the call of destiny by fulfilling our
national duty to the Federation”. High Commissioner Isaac acknowledged the hard work of his staff
and praised his fellow nationals for their service, pride and patriotism.
The High Commissioner also expressed his gratitude to the various companies on St. Kitts and Nevis,
including Caribelle Batik, Clifton Estate Rum, Brinley’s; and individuals such as Mr. Vaughn Anslyn, Dale
Kelly and others whose works displayed their extraordinary talents either in their depiction of the
scenic beauty of the Federation or by drawing attention to the products, entrepreneurial spirit and
talent of the Federation.
Independence anniversary celebrations will continue across the UK and conclude with a Ball in
November in Leeds.
