Yesterday Prime Minister Philip Davis warmly welcomed Vice President Kamala Harris of the United States to a bilateral meeting, ahead of the US-Caribbean Leaders’ Summit, which was co-hosted by both leaders.
The bilateral meeting built upon a number of issues previously addressed during last year’s Summit of The Americas, as well as the bilateral meeting held in Washington DC, in January 2023.
Vice-President Harris congratulated Prime Minister Davis on his leadership on issues relating to climate change, and they discussed the need to build resilience in The Bahamas.
Further to Prime Minister Davis’ advocacy on the need to do more to control the trafficking of firearms to the region, Vice-President Harris was pleased to announce the investment of $100 million in the region to support a crackdown on the illegal trade, and also to help alleviate the humanitarian crisis in Haiti to support climate change initiatives.
Prime Minister Davis also raised a number of other specific issues.
A discussion was held about re-establishing pre-clearance facilities in Grand Bahama, which would serve to further facilitate travel between the two nations and catalyze economic growth on the island.
Other issues raised include overflight arrangements between the two countries, and other diplomatic and consular items.
The bilateral meeting underscored the shared commitment of the United States and The Bahamas in 50 years of meaningful engagement to continue working together the mutual benefit, with a view to addressing shared regional concerns.
Vice-President Harris expressed appreciation for the warm welcome and the constructive conversations, reiterating the United States’ dedication to its enduring partnership with The Bahamas.
Vice-President Harris also conveyed her gratitude to Prime Minister Davis, in his capacity as Chair of the Conference of CARICOM Heads, for his leadership on regional issues and pledged the United States’ continuing support.