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Prime Minister Dr Terrance Drew has confirmed that St. Kitts and Nevis has negotiated and entered into a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with the United States of America regarding the potential transfer of certain third-country nationals, stressing that the arrangement is limited, voluntary, and firmly grounded in CARICOM principles.
Speaking on the matter, Dr Drew said the government’s approach was shaped by changes in the global geopolitical environment, noting that “the geopolitical environment at this time is not what we have been accustomed to” and that “being proactive is very important”.
According to the Prime Minister, the MOU allows for the possible transfer of CARICOM nationals only, and does not involve persons from outside the Caribbean Community. He emphasised that the agreement excludes Haiti at this time due to security considerations.
Under the arrangement, the United States may propose the transfer of CARICOM citizens who do not have violent or sexual criminal backgrounds. However, Dr Drew made it clear that St. Kitts and Nevis is not obligated to accept any individual under the MOU.
“We are not obliged according to the MOU,” the Prime Minister stated, adding that the framework allows for jointly developed operational procedures, including capacity-based limits and logistical arrangements.
He reiterated that all transfers must be agreed upon by both governments and that the arrangement applies only to CARICOM nationals, excluding Haiti, and only to those without violent or sexual criminal histories.
Dr Drew explained that the agreement reflects St. Kitts and Nevis’ commitment to regional cooperation, noting that CARICOM citizens already have the right to move within the Community and that member states have generally agreed to receive their own nationals.
“This arrangement… is in keeping with our CARICOM principle,” he said, describing it as a collaborative approach rather than a “one-size-fits-all” solution. Each country, he noted, negotiates terms based on its own circumstances.
The Prime Minister defended the government’s strategy as an example of “proactive diplomacy in good faith”, aimed at securing the best possible outcomes while balancing national, regional, and international considerations.
Addressing critics of regional integration, Dr Drew acknowledged that CARICOM is not without flaws but stressed its importance to the region’s progress.
“CARICOM is not perfect… but without CARICOM, the region will be way behind,” he said.
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