United States Ambassador accredited to St. Kitts and Nevis, Mr. Larry Palmer, indicated that together both countries are stronger and more resolute than they would be alone and said that as the United States Ambassador to this country, he looks forward to deepening this cooperative relationship
“This partnership is underscored by the cooperative working relationship between the St. Kitts and Nevis Defence Force, and especially its Coast Guard, and the United States military and law enforcement agencies. You all have been strong partners, and have taken an aggressive stance to keep this region safe from illicit narcotics trafficking and other threats to the maritime borders of our shared region,” said the Ambassador.
Since the launch of the Caribbean Basin Security Initiative in 2009, the United States has committed more than US$2.5 million in direct bilateral assistance to St. Kitts and Nevis to reduce illicit trafficking and increase public safety.
Palmer was speaking as he presented two 33-foot Defender Class SAFE interceptor vessels and other equipment worth over US$1.5 million to the Coast Guard Unit on Tuesday afternoon, and said the equipment includes a robust communications system; training and technical support; a heavy duty pick-up truck; and a period of maintenance, repair and spare parts to help develop a domestic capacity to maintain these maritime assets.
“The interceptor boats and the installed communications systems will provide St. Kitts and Nevis with a distinct edge in detecting, tracking and pursuing suspects, and will facilitate operational efficiency between nations,” he told officials at the handing over ceremony at the Coast Guard Base at Bird Rock.
St. Kitts and Nevis’ Prime Minister, Dr. Denzil Douglas in his comments said he looks forward to the on-going collaboration and cooperation with the United States of America, in a range of initiatives, to advance peace and security throughout the region.
Douglas, who has responsibility for the Police and the Defence Force, thanked the United States of America for the steadfast commitment that it has repeatedly shown to the peace and security of the Caribbean region in recent years.
“President Barack Obama had made it clear to the leaders of this region, very early in his administration, the seriousness with which he intended to handle the issue of regional peace and security. And this commitment, I must say, particularly with reference to St. Kitts and
Nevis, the President has kept – time and time again,” said Prime Minister Douglas.
He also praised the “pro-active, results-oriented approach of U.S. Ambassador, His Excellency Mr. Larry Palmer, in shepherding and undergirding of this important bilateral relationship.”
“Your presence, Mr. Ambassador, has been a boon to our Government’s commitment to advance greater efficiency, effectiveness, and efficacy in the maintenance of law and order, and for this we thank you,” Dr. Douglas said.
