Guyana: CARICOM Leaders Address US Migration Agreements

CARICOM Heads of Government have communicated to citizens that the proposed migration agreements with the United States are designed to facilitate the transit of migrants through CARICOM states, rather than establishing settlement hubs for Third Country Nationals. This statement was made following discussions at the 51st Regular Meeting of the Conference of Heads of Government.

The regional leaders emphasized that the arrangements are intended to assist migrants in returning to their home countries and are not meant for permanent relocation within CARICOM member states. They reviewed proposed Memoranda of Understanding (MOUs) offered by the United States to individual member states and acknowledged shared concerns regarding the capacity of small countries to manage such arrangements.

CARICOM stated that any agreement involving Third Country Nationals must not compromise national security or divert resources and public services away from local citizens. The leaders committed to ensuring that regional countries are not subjected to undue pressure in this context.

Furthermore, they highlighted the importance of engaging CARICOM citizens on the topic, considering the concerns related to migration, security, and public resources. According to the statement, the proposed agreements would apply to individuals without criminal records and aim to facilitate their return to their countries of origin.

CARICOM reiterated its dedication to safe, orderly, and regular migration while also preserving the dignity of migrants. The regional body acknowledged its longstanding partnership with the United States, noting that Washington values the proposed agreements. Some CARICOM member states have already signed the MOUs, while others are still in discussions with U.S. officials. It was noted that approximately 30 countries globally have entered into similar agreements with the United States regarding Third Country Nationals.

Source: hgptv.com