Leaders of the Organisation of Eastern Caribbean States (OECS) have agreed that requests from the United States for some member states to accept third-country nationals should be addressed through a united regional approach.
The issue was discussed during a meeting of OECS Heads of Government in Saint Lucia on Tuesday, where leaders discussed regional and global challenges.
While a few OECS countries, including Saint Lucia, have already entered non-binding agreements to continue discussions with the United States, leaders agreed that the matter should not be handled individually. As a result, a high-level OECS negotiating team will be established to engage the United States on behalf of member states.
The meeting, hosted by Prime Minister Philip J Pierre, also discussed Saint Lucia’s role in helping to shape a united regional response to issues that could directly affect everyday life in the Eastern Caribbean.
In discussing the shifting geopolitical climate, leaders expressed concern about the situation between Venezuela and the United States, and what that could mean for the region.
Leaders noted possible effects on economic stability, energy security, regional safety, migration, and diplomatic relations. They agreed that maintaining peace, stability, and constructive hemispheric relations remains a priority.
Citizenship by Investment Programmes also featured on the agenda, with leaders reaffirming their commitment to strengthening oversight, and harmonising standards. They pointed to recent progress toward creating a regional regulatory authority. Leaders also underscored the importance of continued engagement with international partners, including the European Union.
Another key area of discussion was the planned introduction of biometric travel systems across the OECS, aimed at improving border security and facilitating smoother movement for citizens and visitors.
With global developments changing quickly, OECS leaders agreed to meet as often as necessary to stay aligned and respond effectively.
Saint Lucia reaffirmed its commitment to regional unity and collective decision-making, while continuing to engage international partners in ways that protect the region’s long-term stability and development.
Leaders also committed to keeping citizens informed, stressing that any decisions taken will be guided by what is best for the people of Saint Lucia and the wider OECS.
Tuesday’s meeting was chaired by St Vincent and the Grenadines Prime Minister Dr Godwin Friday, marking his first time presiding over an OECS Heads of Government meeting.
Among those attending the meeting were Dominica’s Prime Minister Roosevelt Skerrit, Grenada’s Prime Minister Dickon Mitchell, St Kitts and Nevis Prime Minister Dr Terrance Drew, Montserrat Premier Reuben T Meade, British Virgin Islands Premier Dr Natalio Wheatley, and Anguilla Premier Cora Richardson-Hodge. OECS Director General Dr Didacus Jules also took part in the discussions.
