PM Pierre welcomes Gerald Darmanin, aims to strengthen relations with France

Castries, Saint Lucia: Prime Minister Philip J Pierre welcomed Gerald Darmanin, a Minister for the Interior and Overseas Territories of the Republic of France, to discuss the measures for enhancing bilateral cooperation between the two nations. 

The meeting took place on March 15, and government officials from both sides discussed several topics of concern, such as health, education, and security. 

Notably, the French official Darmanin was accompanied by President Serge Letchimy and the Prefect of Martinique- Jean Christophe Bouvier. 

While speaking about the security between Saint Lucia and Martinique, PM Pierre emphasized the need for strong relations and cooperation between the Saint Lucia Police Force and French Security Forces, including the National Police, Navy and Gendarmerie. 

As a matter of fact, the officials discussed about the urgency to introduced a Canine Unit. The island nation will be financially supported by the Republic of France for the training and possession of the canine and its handler.  

The leader of Saint Lucia led a discussion regarding the improvements in healthcare services for the well-being of the citizens in the country. To enhance the quality medical services, the nation partners with medical organizations in Guadeloupe and Martinique. 

Both the countries, Saint Lucia and France, favour the idea of fostering the healthcare sector for sustainable living standards. 

PM Pierre and the Minister for Health, Moses Jn Baptiste, expressed their gratitude to the government of Martinique for their constant support and contribution in providing healthcare to the citizens of the island nation.

The government is looking forward to continue their partnership as they hope for the future collaboration such as training of nurses and the rebuilding of St Jude Hospital. They envision an advanced technologies in the healthcare sector. 

The prime minister strongly favoured the idea of more frequent meetings as such meetings are expected to bring positive outcomes and support in the development of both the nations. 

PM Pierre has always been active in taking interest in international meetings, underscores the need to maintain the foreign relations for mutual growth and interests.