Prime Minister of St Lucia Philip Pierre says the signing of a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with the United States on the potential acceptance of third-country nationals does not mean that people will be immediately sent to the island.

Speaking at a media conference on January 12, Pierre stressed that there is no final agreement in place and that negotiations with the US are still ongoing.

“There has been no agreement with the Government of the United States,” Pierre said. “I cannot tell you numbers, nor can I tell you about conditions, nor can I tell you anything of that nature.”

He explained that the MoU is a framework to guide dialogue and cooperation between St Lucia and the United States regarding third-country nationals currently in the US whom American authorities wish to remove.

“What we have signed, as most countries have signed, is an MoU. The memorandum of understanding is basically a framework for dialogue and cooperation with the United States as it relates to nationals from third countries who are presently in the United States,” Pierre said.

The prime minister said discussions are continuing on the specific terms and conditions and that the public will be informed once those details are finalised.

“When that is ready, I will inform you,” he told journalists. “As to how many people will come, as to housing and other arrangements, I will inform you when I have that information.”

Pierre made it clear that St Lucia will not accept anyone with a criminal record and that the government will receive legally permissible information, including health records, before making any decision.

The prime minister said no date or time has been identified as to when St Lucia will begin accepting third country nationals. 

It will also be at the St Lucia’s discretion who is allowed to be relocated to the island. 

“The US Government will not just send people here. We are going to be discussing it. It is a mutual understanding with a diplomatic alley.”

Pierre also addressed concerns about the lack of public disclosure, saying the MoU is not secret and that diplomatic engagements are not typically conducted in the public domain.

He noted that several CARICOM countries have entered similar arrangements with the United States, including Dominica.

St Kitts and Nevis and Belize also signed with the US.

St Kitts and Nevis said in their agreement they have agreed to accept CARICOM nationals with the exception of Haitians. 

St Kitts and Nevis Prime Minister Terrance Drew said anyone coming to the islands will be fully vetted and must not have been committed of serious crimes. 

Guyana and Antigua and Barbuda are also in talks with the US regarding accepting third nationals.

Addressing speculation about possible visa restrictions on St Lucian passport holders, Pierre said he had received no information suggesting St Lucia would be affected. 

He described claims circulating online as false and aimed at creating fear.

The United States recently imposed visa restrictions on Antigua and Barbuda and Dominica, citing security concerns. 

Passport holders from those countries are now required to post bonds ranging from US$5,000 to US$15,000 and are limited to entry through three US airports, including John F Kennedy International Airport.

Pierre urged the public to be responsible in sharing information, warning that misinformation could harm the country’s reputation. 

He also called on political opponents to work with the government to strengthen St Lucia amid ongoing global challenges.