Caribbean CIP Countries to Gather in St. John’s for Critical Conference

The Eastern Caribbean nations that implement Citizenship by Investment Programmes (CIPs) are set to convene in Antigua and Barbuda this month to address significant topics affecting the future of the industry.

Charmaine Donovan, the Chief Executive Officer of the Antigua and Barbuda Citizenship by Investment Unit (CIU), highlighted at a recent news conference that CIS25 is timely, featuring the theme: “Integrity, Stability, and Sustainability.”

Prime ministers and heads of CIP units from nations including St. Kitts and Nevis, Dominica, Grenada, and St. Lucia will be present to engage in crucial discussions.

This conference arrives amidst increased scrutiny from European Union countries and the United States. However, Donovan reassured that a cooperative agreement signed last year aims to enhance operations across the CIP.

“CIS25 provides a platform for stakeholders to promote awareness on advancements made by our regional regulatory body,” she stated, emphasizing the ongoing partnership with the Eastern Caribbean Central Bank and the OECS Commission. The Interim Regulatory Committee is actively developing necessary legislation and an administrative framework to ensure the sustainability of these programs, which are vital to the regional economies.

Donovan underscored Antigua and Barbuda’s commitment to integrity and transparency, stating that these principles have positioned the nation’s CIP as the ‘gold standard’ in the sub-region.

“This summit shines a spotlight on Antigua and Barbuda, not only as an attractive investment destination but also as a wonderful place to live and visit,” she remarked.

Stacio Williams, Chief Catalyst of OPEN Interactive Inc., a St. Kitts-based firm collaborating with the CIU for the event, noted that the summit was envisioned by Prime Minister Gaston Browne.

He believed in the importance of regular meetings among these nations to assess the effectiveness of their programmes.

“Prime Minister Browne didn’t merely create a conference; he initiated a movement aimed at enhancing citizenship programmes throughout the Caribbean,” Williams stated.

Emphasizing the prominence of the Antigua and Barbuda CIP, Williams highlighted its exemplary practices: rigorous background checks that set benchmarks for others, swift application processing without compromising security, meticulous financial tracking, and unwavering integrity acknowledged by global organizations.

He concluded, “Our theme of ‘Integrity, Stability, Sustainability’ reflects the foundation that Prime Minister Browne and CEO Donovan have established.”

As the region prepares for this summit, all eyes will be on the outcomes of these discussions, with hopes for strengthened cooperation and lasting improvements across the Caribbean CIP landscape.