Cruise & Port Development: Work has started on a new Port Zante cruise terminal to support P&O Cruises turnaround calls from winter 2027, with Iona and Arvia sailing St. Kitts–based itineraries and Basseterre added as a turnaround for Iona, alongside upgraded security and immigration systems. CBI Diplomacy: Eastern Caribbean leaders met in Roseau to respond to the EU’s revised visa suspension mechanism tied to Citizenship by Investment, reaffirming reforms like due diligence and a regional CBI regulator, and agreeing to send a high-level delegation to Brussels. Regional Security & Borders: The US DHS and CARICOM’s IMPACS signed a biometric data-sharing partnership to strengthen immigration vetting and border security across participating countries, with St. Kitts hosting the signing in Washington. Sanctions Risk for SKN: The US Treasury sanctioned Iranian financier Ali Ansari and designated Smart Global Limited, a Charlestown, Nevis-registered company, raising fresh scrutiny around citizenship screening and corporate oversight. ECCB & Financial Inclusion: The ECCU Monetary Council received updates on expanding the First Step Savings Account and progress on instant cross-border payments pilots (CAPSS and a fast payment system), while noting fiscal steps to cushion higher living costs. Macro Snapshot: St. Kitts and Nevis retained World Bank high-income status in the latest classification. Regional Leadership: Dr. Irving McIntyre assumed chairmanship of the ECCB Monetary Council, pledging continued focus on stability and cooperation. Tourism Sector Watch: Tourism Minister Marsha Henderson flagged ongoing constraints like aircraft delivery delays and shifting cruise itineraries, even as arrivals continue to recover. Currency Update: ECCB unveiled redesigned EC banknotes featuring regional heroes, with Sir Robert Llewellyn Bradshaw set for the EC$50 note.