Saint Lucia’s government seeks clarification from the U.S. regarding travel restrictions, following reports identifying it among 22 nations on a ‘yellow’ list that could face limitations. St. Kitts and Nevis, Antigua and Barbuda, and Dominica are also included, all actively communicating with U.S. officials regarding their Citizenship by Investment programs and related security practices.
The Government of Saint Lucia has not received any formal notification from the United States concerning its potential classification for travel restrictions. Currently, the government is actively seeking clarity, particularly following a report by the New York Times which identifies Saint Lucia within a ‘yellow’ tier alongside 21 other nations. This designation grants these countries a 60-day window to rectify perceived deficiencies to avoid potential travel limitations.
The proposed travel restrictions, under consideration by the U.S. State Department, also include a ‘red’ list prohibiting entry for 11 countries and an ‘orange’ list with restrictions but not outright bans for 10 others. Saint Lucia has emphasized the robust partnership it shares with the United States and aims to strengthen this relationship further.
Additional Caribbean nations, including St. Kitts and Nevis, Antigua and Barbuda, and Dominica, find themselves on the same ‘yellow’ list and are similarly pursuing clarity from U.S. authorities. Although the New York Times did not specify the reasons for this tier distinction, potential concerns may relate to security practices in passport issuance, traveler information sharing, or citizenship sales linked to individuals from countries already banned.
The St. Kitts and Nevis government has communicated its ongoing dialogue with the U.S. government about its Citizenship by Investment (CBI) program. Prime Minister Dr. Terrence Drew has actively engaged with U.S. officials, signifying a commitment to international cooperation. Furthermore, Antigua and Barbuda stated its CBI program policies, highlighting a strict vetting process that excludes applicants from nations on the U.S. banned list.
These Caribbean nations are collectively aiming to uphold rigorous standards in their CBI programs and affirm their commitment to global practices to maintain positive dialogue with the United States, ultimately fostering stronger developmental ties.
In summary, the Government of Saint Lucia is actively pursuing clarification regarding possible travel restrictions from the United States, following media reports categorizing it within a ‘yellow’ tier. Along with neighboring Caribbean nations, there is an emphasis on maintaining open channels of communication with U.S. authorities concerning Citizenship by Investment programs. This situation highlights the importance of international cooperation and adherence to global best practices among these countries to secure their developmental relationships.
Original Source: stluciatimes.com
