ST THOMAS, USVI — During a recent trip to Washington, DC, US Virgin Islands Governor John de Jongh met with Democratic Senator Ronald Wyden from Oregon on instituting a special visa waiver for residents of Caribbean Community (CARICOM) countries.
Wyden is the chairman of the Subcommittee on International Trade, Customs and Global Competitiveness, an offshoot of the Finance Committee. He also serves as chairman of the Energy and Natural Resources Committee. Wyden will become chairman of the Finance Committee with the forthcoming retirement of Senator Max Baucus of Montana.
US Virgin Islands Governor John de Jongh
De Jongh reported, “After a discussion and explanation on its importance, Senator Wyden agreed to sponsor an amendment to the immigration bill currently before Congress that would grant special visa waivers to residents of the 15 countries in the Caribbean Community for trips to the US Virgin Islands. The waivers would be specifically for individuals who are traveling for sporting events, medical services and general tourism.”
“We fully believe that such a change would broaden our reach into neighboring Caribbean markets. The territory’s sporting events are growing in popularity and prestige, especially for competitions in volleyball, track, tennis, swimming and sailing. An amendment to the immigration bill would allow for easier travel for athletes, as well as for individuals seeking top-notch medical care or just looking for a great place for a vacation, that is close to home,” he explained.
The governor also commented on developing a good relationship with Wyden as the senator takes on the chairmanship of the all-important Congressional Finance Committee.
“It is vital to the Virgin Islands that Senator Wyden understands and becomes engaged in our challenges and opportunities. I believe it is a good sign that he agreed to sponsor an amendment for the territory specifically. I look forward to working with him on further issues affecting the Virgin Islands,” he concluded.
