The United States’ actions in Venezuela and their impact on the region, along with Washington’s request for Organisation of Eastern Caribbean States (OECS) members to accept Third Country Nationals (TCNs), were among the key issues discussed when OECS leaders met on Tuesday in Saint Lucia.
In a press statement released Thursday, the meeting – chaired by newly appointed Prime Minister of St. Vincent and the Grenadines, Dr. Godwin Friday – brought together Prime Minister Roosevelt Skerrit of Dominica, Prime Minister Dickon Mitchell of Grenada, Prime Minister Dr. Terrance Drew of St. Kitts and Nevis, Premier Reuben T. Meade of Montserrat, Premier Dr. Natalio Wheatley of the British Virgin Islands, and Premier Cora Richardson-Hodge of Anguilla. They were joined by OECS Director General Dr. Didacus Jules.
According to the statement, Washington’s request for OECS states to accept TCNs was a central agenda item. Some member states have already signed non-binding memoranda of understanding to explore the issue further. In response, leaders agreed to establish a high-level negotiating team to lead technical talks with the U.S., signalling a collective approach to a sensitive matter.
The summit also examined the shifting geopolitical environment, with particular focus on ongoing tensions between Venezuela and the U.S. Leaders highlighted potential impacts on economic stability, regional and energy security, migration flows, and diplomatic relations. They reaffirmed their commitment to peace, stability, and good neighbourly relations within the hemisphere.
On Citizenship by Investment Programmes (CIPs), leaders pledged continued reforms and best practices, noting progress toward a regional regulatory authority and legislative changes. They stressed the importance of ongoing dialogue with partners such as the European Union.