US Virgin Islands to closely collaborate with Caribbean region post CARICOM meeting

The US Virgin Islands is enveloping a greater Caribbean identity after having made progress in initiating an operational cooperation agreement with the Caribbean Community (CARICOM).

This development took place soon after the region returned to the 25-member Caribbean Tourism Organisation (CTO). Officials provided a statement saying “the relationship between the USVI and the CTO is not a new one, and the CTO is confident the renewed partnership will result in several positive outcomes for both parties and the wider CTO membership.”

The Director of State-Federal Relations and Washington Representative for the Government of the US Virgin Islands, Teri Helenese is spearheading the relationship with CARICOM on behalf of Governor Albert Bryan JR, as an Associate membership with the inter-governmental organization was the option they preferred.

The primary concerns surround the complexities arising from the fact that the USVI is marked as US territory, implying specific approvals are required from Washington for them to progress, and that dependence slows them down when it comes to making decisions. The operational cooperation model has been presented as a stepping stone for associate membership and a mark of shifting political landscapes.

Several territories that possess an Associate membership have expressed an interest in claiming full membership with the regional organization, including the British Virgin Islands and the Turks and Caicos, Bermuda, and virtually every overseas British Territory.

In a statement, Helenese said, “Functional cooperation encompasses launching specific projects and initiatives to promote mutual benefits, address shared challenges, and achieve common goals within the Caribbean.”

She also points out the importance of fostering a positive relationship with CARICOM, since they share mutual goals over a variety of subjects. Specifically, the USVI is keen on developing a “blue economy“, that is to say investing in pivotal sectors including tourism, and agriculture, stimulating regional trade, combatting climate change, job creation and many other points of interest.

A key point of interest has been in relation to the Visa Waiver Program, which will enhance employment opportunities for various Caribbean Nationals.