Secretary of State Marco Rubio addressed the 50th Regular Meeting of the Conference of CARICOM Heads of Government in Saint Kitts and Nevis, emphasizing the importance of partnership between the United States and Caribbean nations.
Rubio highlighted his personal connection to the region, noting his upbringing in Miami and his long-standing focus on Caribbean issues during his time in the U.S. Senate. He stated, "This is – in many ways, the Caribbean Basin is home for me, having grown up and lived almost the entirety of my life in Miami, and during my career in the United States Senate followed very carefully the issues that impact this region."
He acknowledged that it had been a decade since a U.S. Secretary of State attended such a gathering with all CARICOM members present. Rubio said he was pleased to represent an administration prioritizing engagement with the Western Hemisphere after years of limited attention.
Rubio identified transnational criminal organizations as one of the most urgent security threats facing both the United States and its regional partners. He pointed out that these groups often have resources rivaling those of nation-states and are funded primarily through narcotrafficking. "We recognize that it is an interlocked challenge that comes from a broader perspective. Number one, they’re obviously fueled by narcotrafficking and other illicit means," Rubio said. He also noted concerns about weaponry purchased from the United States ending up in criminal hands and described ongoing efforts to address this issue through law enforcement cooperation.
Referencing recent events in Mexico as an example, Rubio emphasized how drug cartels possess military-grade equipment, underscoring the need for collective action against such threats.
On economic matters, Rubio discussed opportunities for collaboration on energy development within the region. He stressed that responsible exploration of energy resources could benefit local populations and economies: "Many of the countries represented here today have energy resources that I know you seek to explore responsibly, safely, but in a way that generates wealth and prosperity for your people and your countries, and we want to be your partner in that regard."
Addressing developments in Venezuela, Rubio stated: "Venezuela is better off today than it was eight weeks ago. The progress being made there is substantial, and there’s a long ways to go." He credited interim authorities led by Delcy Rodríguez with significant changes including releasing political prisoners and redirecting oil revenues toward public needs. While acknowledging continued challenges, he emphasized U.S. support for stability first before focusing on democratic elections as essential for Venezuela's future growth.
Rubio also encouraged investment across the wider region: "We want it to be a place that is attractive for inbound investment... To the extent that there are opportunities for American businesses or American investors to be a part of that, we want to facilitate that."
He concluded by reaffirming U.S. commitment to strengthening ties with Caribbean nations over his tenure: "the stronger, the safer, the more prosperous, and the more secure that all of your counties are, the stronger, safer, more secure, and prosperous the United States is going to be." Rubio added he hoped his visit would demonstrate renewed dedication to regional partnerships.
The meeting took place shortly after President Biden’s State of the Union address.
