EU, UK officials express satisfaction with impact of CBI Programme on Dominica: PM Skerrit

Roseau, Dominica: Prime Minister Dr Roosevelt Skerrit talked about the outcomes of the recent visit of the officials from the European Union and a special delegation from the UK Home Office in Dominica. He said that the meeting was constructive which led the officials to change their perspective on the CBI programme. Speaking at the local radio show on Friday morning, PM Skerrit outlined that their visits consisted of thorough investigations and audits of the Citizenship by Investment Programme. He said that both delegations acknowledged the wise use of the programme for the developmental initiatives of Dominica.

Highlighting the views of officials on the CBI Programme, the Prime Minister noted that they were satisfied with the positive impact of the programme on the overall growth and development of Dominica. He said that the meeting showcased the initiatives launched by the government with the help of the CBI.

He said, ”The meeting with both the delegates was productive as they were happy with what we have done and what we are doing. I think the visit has changed their perspective towards the Citizenship by Investment Programme of Dominica.”

The European Union officials also evaluated the CBI and Immigration Units and held a productive meeting with the Due Diligence firms to assess and analyse their work. PM Skerrit said that collective engagement has also taken place between the EU and different officials involved in the Citizenship by Investment Programme.

Emphasizing the significance of first-hand experience, PM Skerrit cited that the EU officials will now have a better understanding of the use of the CBI Programme. He said that they saw the progress that Dominica has made in the last few years.

Talking about the concerns related to the programme, the Prime Minister mentioned that significant steps have been taken by the government of Dominica towards the enhancement of the programme. He said that legislative actions such as policies regarding name changes, regulating the marketing and promotion strategies and others have been implemented recently.

Commenting on CBI’s transparency, the PM noted that they work hard to maintain the integrity of the programme and follow the best practices. He asserted that he always welcomed international partners to Dominica and asked them to see their work.

He reiterated his commitment towards the international community and said that the government is always ready to address their concerns.

He stressed that the government will take necessary actions on the recommendations which will be proposed by the EU officials. The advice of the officials will be given paramount importance, and the government is looking forward to their recommendations, as per the prime minister.

Coming to the visit of the delegation from the UK Home Office, PM Skerrit outlined that they visited Dominica on Monday and expressed happiness with the progress of Dominica. Besides this, in order to discuss reinstating visa-free access, Dominica is also planning to send a retired police officer to the UK.

In addition to that, PM Skerrit said that they also had a meeting with the Financial Intelligence Unit (FIU), aiming to enhance their functioning towards the programme. He lauded both the delegations and said that such collaborations are necessary for the overall development of the CBI Programme. PM Skerrit also asked UK and EU to come together and work on the joint recommendations.

He asserted that Dominica will ensure the enhancement of CBI Programme and the proper use of its resources towards the nation’s development.