In a high-level diplomatic meeting , U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio convened with the heads of government from the Eastern Caribbean and the Bahamas to address pressing regional security concerns, infrastructure transparency, and disaster preparedness.
The meeting, held in Washington, underscored the United States’ commitment to strengthening partnerships in the Caribbean through enhanced intelligence-sharing, border security, and collaboration under the Caribbean Basin Security Initiative (CBSI). Secretary Rubio emphasized the urgency of addressing drug and firearms trafficking and irregular migration — issues he described as key drivers of violence and regional instability.
Rubio also called for transparency and accountability in infrastructure development, warning against the risks posed by unreliable contractors and foreign influence. He specifically cautioned Caribbean nations against falling prey to exploitation by malign actors such as the Chinese Communist Party when selecting vendors for critical infrastructure projects.
In a show of solidarity with the region ahead of the upcoming hurricane season, Secretary Rubio announced the reactivation of two U.S.-administered emergency programs designed to enhance early warning systems and deliver rapid, life-saving aid throughout the Caribbean.
He reaffirmed the U.S. government’s continued stance against the Cuban regime’s forced labor practices, including its controversial overseas medical missions. Rubio pledged support for international efforts aimed at holding complicit individuals and entities accountable.
Caribbean leaders in attendance included:
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Prime Minister Ralph Gonsalves of Saint Vincent and the Grenadines
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Prime Minister Roosevelt Skerrit of Dominica
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Prime Minister Gaston Browne of Antigua and Barbuda
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Prime Minister Philip Davis of The Bahamas
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Prime Minister Philip J. Pierre of Saint Lucia
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Prime Minister Dickon Mitchell of Grenada
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Prime Minister Terrance Drew of Saint Kitts and Nevis
The meeting marks a significant step toward deepening U.S.-Caribbean relations amid growing global security and economic challenges.
