He said that in keeping with the Rio+20 Commitments, he is confident that we can make the Third SIDS Conference key to the future development of SIDS, particularly in the post 2015 development framework; and he  pledges the full support of St. Kitts and Nevis for this initiative. 

As world leaders wrapped up their deliberations at Rio+20, Dr. Douglas suggested that the eventual outcome of the discussions is both integrated and balanced. 

“And let us strive to ensure that we have not only tangible objectives, but indeed tangible results as well.  And so, as we reflect on the essence of sustainable development, let us make a point of including in our thought processes the devastating impact of non-communicable diseases on nations large and small, across the globe,” he told delegates. 

He noted that the World Health Organization has confirmed that this spectrum of diseases now constitutes the number one cause of all deaths worldwide.  

“As a result, therefore, this issue should no longer be viewed as a narrow health issue per se, but as a troubling phenomenon with direct and far-reaching implications where sustainable development itself is concerned,” Dr. Douglas said. 

Speaking at the Rio+20 Conference in Brazil late Thursday afternoon, Prime Minister Dr. Denzil Douglas pointed out that the challenge of environmental governance is a truly global one, requiring the contribution of all. 

“In this regard, the Government of St. Kitts and Nevis wishes to bring to your attention the exclusion of the Republic of China (Taiwan) and to strongly urge that they be afforded the opportunity to participate in global mechanisms, negotiations, and other activities aimed at procuring increased viable options for sustainable development. Sustainable development is important to all,” said Prime Minister Douglas.