Community members and friends of Saint Kitts and Nevis, the dual-island nation situated between the Atlantic Ocean and the Caribbean Sea, celebrated their National Day for the first time in Doha.
A reception was held to celebrate the 41st National Day of Saint Kitts and Nevis on Wednesday at the Diplomatic Club Doha, hosted by Khalil Ismail Al-Ismail and Elisabeth Marascalchi, both business community members in Qatar from the dual-island nation.
Present on the occasion were Salah Khaled, Doha-based Regional Director of UNESCO; Jassim bin Ali Hamad Al Attiya, Chairman of Al Zaem Holding Company; dignitaries, guests, and community members of St. Kitts and Nevis.
Around 50-60 nationals of St. Kitts and Nevis are currently living in Qatar. With its strategic location and dedication to sustainable development, St. Kitts and Nevis provide an attractive investment climate, and, thus thrive as a flourishing nation.
"Today is a key milestone in the efforts to strengthen friendship, communication, and collaboration between the nationals of St Kitts and Qatari citizens and residents,” Elisabeth Marascalchi, CEO of Riva Group and Managing Director of Al Zaeem Holding, told Qatar Tribune.
She said that the first-ever embassy of St. Kitts and Nevis was opened in Abu Dhabi in the Arabian Gulf states in 2021.
The country, officially known as the Federation of Saint Christopher and Nevis is located in the West Indies. It is the smallest country in the Western Hemisphere – both in land area and population.
St. Kitts has diverse landscapes, including the impressive dormant stratovolcano, Mount Liamuiga, and the well-preserved Brimstone Hill Fortress, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Nevis is renowned for its tranquillity and natural beauty, with its dormant volcano, Nevis Peak, attracting hikers and nature enthusiasts. The island’s history is evident in its sugar mill ruins and traditional Caribbean-style buildings.
Culturally, St. Kitts and Nevis showcase a blend of African, British, and Caribbean heritage. The annual St. Kitts Music Festival is a highlight featuring performances by local and international artists.
Economic activity in St. Kitts and Nevis is complemented by initiatives in renewable energy and sustainable development. The country has been exploring renewable energy sources such as geothermal and solar power to reduce its dependence on fossil fuels and promote environmental conservation.
Tourism, agriculture, and financial services play vital roles in the country’s economy. The government has emphasized sustainable tourism development while attracting luxury travellers to the islands’ unspoiled beauty.
The year-round tropical climate ensures warmth, a perfect destination for beach lovers offering a slew of attractive marine activities, including sailing, snorkeling, and scuba diving.
As the country embraces its cultural heritage, natural beauty, and warm hospitality, it remains an enticing destination for travellers, investors, and businesses alike, fostering economic growth and a promising future for its population.
The two-island country in the eastern Caribbean Sea is a member state among 56 independent countries in the Commonwealth.
St Kitts is a fertile island with mainly black sandy beaches, whereas coral reefs surround Nevis which has silver beaches. Both islands were formed by volcanic activity and are mountainous.