Saint Lucia and Caribbean Nations Request Clarity on Proposed US Travel Restrictions

Saint Lucia is actively seeking clarification from the United States regarding its categorization in a proposed travel restrictions list. A report indicated Saint Lucia is in a ‘yellow’ tier, alongside St Kitts and Nevis, Antigua and Barbuda, and Dominica. Each nation’s government is engaged in efforts to clarify the implications and context of the categorization concerning their respective Citizenship by Investment programs.

The Government of Saint Lucia has not received any formal notification from the United States regarding its status on a potential travel restriction list. Despite this, Saint Lucia is actively pursuing clarification on the matter after a report by the New York Times indicated that it falls under a ‘yellow’ category of 22 nations. Countries in this tier are given 60 days to address perceived deficiencies or risk facing restrictions.

The draft list distinguished countries into three tiers: a ‘red’ list of 11 nations facing outright entry bans, and an ‘orange’ list of 10 countries with travel limitations but not complete prohibitions. In a statement from the Office of the Prime Minister, Saint Lucia reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening relations with the United States, which it considers a key partner in development.

Additional nations on the ‘yellow’ list include St Kitts and Nevis, Antigua and Barbuda, and Dominica, each of whom is also seeking clarification from the US regarding these proposed travel restrictions. The New York Times report did not specify reasons for the categorization, although potential factors may include inadequate passport security practices or insufficient data sharing about travelers.

The Caribbean islands listed implement Citizenship by Investment (CBI) programs. St Kitts and Nevis emphasized ongoing dialogue with the US government since August 2022, particularly about reforms to its CBI program, highlighting prior high-level engagements with US State Department officials.

Antigua and Barbuda has communicated with the US State Department, asserting that its CBI program does not accept applications from individuals sourced from US-designated banned countries. It also stressed that applicants undergo stringent vetting via recognized international agencies, including INTERPOL, to prevent any candidates with criminal backgrounds from entering its program.

In summary, Saint Lucia and other Caribbean nations are seeking clarity from the United States regarding potential travel restrictions stemming from a recently reported draft list. The governments are currently engaged in diplomatic communications to address concerns and emphasize their commitment to effective CBI program reforms and international cooperation. There is hope for stronger ties and clearer guidelines as these discussions continue.

Original Source: stluciatimes.com