The Government of St. Kitts and Nevis has moved to clarify the scope, safeguards and national-interest rationale underpinning a recently signed memorandum of understanding (MOU) with the United States of America concerning the potential transfer of certain third-country nationals, amid growing public discussion and regional sensitivity around deportations.
Speaking at his first Roundtable press conference on Thursday, Prime Minister Dr. Terrance Drew stressed that the arrangement is tightly defined, non-binding, and firmly aligned with St. Kitts and Nevis’ obligations and principles under the CARICOM framework.
The Prime Minister emphasised that the MOU does not provide for the acceptance of non-CARICOM nationals and explicitly excludes Haiti at this time due to security considerations. Any individuals proposed under the arrangement must also have no violent or sexual criminal background, and St. Kitts and Nevis retains full discretion on whether to accept or decline any proposed transfer.
“This does not involve anybody outside of CARICOM,” Dr. Drew said, underscoring that the arrangement reflects regional norms rather than a departure from them.
Crucially, he confirmed that all costs associated with any potential transfers — including travel, accommodation, healthcare and logistical arrangements — will be borne entirely by the United States, ensuring there is no financial burden placed on local taxpayers.
“There will be no cost to us,” the Prime Minister said, noting that follow-up discussions are already underway with U.S. officials to finalise operational details and ensure smooth implementation if required Note_otter_ai.
Dr. Drew further clarified that the MOU is not an automatic mechanism for deportations, but rather a framework that allows for jointly developed procedures, capacity-based limits and mutual agreement before any action is taken. He stressed that St. Kitts and Nevis is not obligated to accept any transfers under the agreement.
“This is not one cap that fits all,” he said, explaining that each CARICOM country negotiated its own terms with the United States based on national circumstances and priorities.
Responding to questions about the broader national interest, the Prime Minister framed the agreement as part of a wider strategy of proactive diplomacy, designed to protect the country’s security, economy and international standing in an increasingly complex geopolitical environment.
“We negotiate in good faith,” Dr. Drew said, adding that early engagement prevents issues from escalating into crises that leave small states reacting from a position of vulnerability.
He revealed that amid concerns over St. Kitts and Nevis being among nations the US had concerns over, that his Government’s approach has consistently been to engage diplomatically, listen to concerns, and address them where necessary rather than dismissing them outright.
“If there’s one thing I’ve come to recognise, it’s that the United States is willing to talk,” he said, describing diplomacy as an ongoing process rather than a single transaction.
Dr. Drew also confirmed that discussions with the United States have extended beyond the third-country national issue and include wider matters of mutual concern, including those related to the Citizenship by Investment (CBI) Programme. He said such concerns must be taken seriously and addressed through transparent, good-faith dialogue in order to protect the country’s long-term economic interests.
“All decisions are connected,” the Prime Minister said. “One decision might look isolated, but it is tied to our economy, our security, and our long-term wellbeing.”
Addressing fears about the impact of the arrangement on local resources, Dr. Drew reiterated that CARICOM member states have already agreed to receive their own nationals, allowing for onward movement and ensuring St. Kitts and Nevis is not positioned as a long-term host.
He said the Government will continue to keep the public informed as discussions progress, maintaining transparency while safeguarding national security and diplomatic relationships.
The Prime Minister concluded by reiterating that while regional and international cooperation is essential, every decision taken by his administration is guided by a single principle.
“How will our people do?” he said. “How will our economy do? What does this mean for our long-term wellbeing? That is what guides us.”
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