Published 13 March 2019
Buckie Got It, St. Kitts and Nevis News Source
Much of the work falls on the accredited Ambassadors, High Commissioners and others that represent the interests of the twin-island Federation. As such, St. Kitts and Nevis has embassies in different countries where much of the efforts take place. Embassies are in the United States of America, Canada, the United Kingdom, the Republic of China (Taiwan), and Cuba. There is also a Consulate in Dubai.
On today’s (Wednesday March 13, 2019) edition of ‘Working for You’ Kaye Bass, Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, noted that the diplomats and staff at the embassies provide critical service to their home country.
“They do look after our nationals in the Diaspora,” Ms. Bass said, recalling the successful St. Kitts-Nevis Diaspora Conference that was held in June 2018. Scores of nationals participated in the three-day event, and missions overseas were the point of contact for key persons who attended.
The permanent secretary added that regular contact is made with persons in various national associations to “ascertain their needs and to see how best we can cooperate for the development of St. Kitts and Nevis.”
Consular services are also offered such as assisting with the urgent acquisition or renewal of a passport. Additionally, when senior government officials such as the governor general or a minister of government travel, the mission staff will liaise with the authorities to ensure the necessary courtesies are observed at the jurisdiction’s port of entry/exit.
“They also attend meetings to voice or articulate the [St. Kitts and Nevis] government’s priorities and they also meet with government officials in their jurisdictions,” Ms. Bass said.
While costly to maintain, embassies facilitate a human to human connection which many say is vital to promoting mutual respect and understanding while allowing additional opportunities that can positively impact, travel, trade, and investments.
