BASSETERRE, ST. KITTS, JULY 2ND 2007 (CUOPM) – The Caribbean has been outlining the successes derived from the operationalisation of a safe and secure CARICOM space during the recent Cricket World Cup 2007.

"These included a strengthened border security management system, including an advanced passenger information service (APIS), an intelligence sharing mechanism and a common CARICOM Visa policy with similar features to the Schengen Visa policies of the European Union," St. Kitts and Nevis’ Prime Minister Hon. Dr. Denzil L. Douglas has disclosed.

Speaking on behalf of the Caribbean leaders at the closing ceremony of the Caribbean Conference in Washington, D.C., Prime Minister Douglas disclosed that the system which processed over 1 million passengers during the six weeks of its application captured 400 illegal applicants, ‘wanted’ for various regional and international offences.~~Adz:Right~~ 

Prime Minister Douglas said that the Community plans to extend the legacies of World Cup Cricket and argues that since the nature and scope of terrorism and illegal firearms do not originate in the region, it is fair to request the United States on America to collaborate and support the institutionalization of processes aimed at increasing security.

"In deed since 9/11, the escalating costs of implementing the security requirements imposed by the USA have added enormous economic burdens on the Caribbean," said Dr. Douglas.