Kingstown St. Vincent June 16, 2026-Tourism Minister Dr Kishore Shallow has rejected suggestions that the government’s proposed arrangement with Global Ports Holding over the Kingstown cruise ship terminal is linked to political support during the election campaign.
Speaking on Hot 97’s morning programme on 16 June, Dr Shallow responded to a question raised by the host referencing public claims that discussions surrounding the agreement may have predated the current administration and that the deal could amount to political payback.
The government recently signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) with Global Ports Holding aimed at supporting development in the local cruise tourism sector and creating opportunities for local businesses.
Addressing the allegation directly, Dr Shallow said discussions involving the company had begun under the previous administration but did not result in an agreement.
“There was a previous discussion with the then dispensation, the former government. And for whatever reason, they weren’t able to come to an agreement,” he said.
According to the minister, Global Ports Holding deliberately paused engagement during the election period.
“I think what the owner clearly said to us is that they realised that there was an election and they don’t get involved in politics,” Dr Shallow said.
He added that the company resumed contact only after the election had concluded.
“They waited until after the election… then immediately after the election they reached out to me.”
Dr Shallow said the government then entered negotiations and undertook what he described as extensive due diligence before advancing discussions.
He said officials conducted background checks and sought greater understanding of the global cruise sector before moving forward.
As part of that process, Dr Shallow said he attended seminars in Florida and examined Global Ports Holding’s operations.
He added that Prime Minister Dr Friday also visited the Bahamas to observe the company’s operations there and gain insight into its approach.
According to the minister, those combined assessments informed the government’s position.
“Based on all those things come together, we were able to… believe, get the best agreement for St. Vincent and the Grenadines,” he said.
Dr Shallow maintained that the process was based on evaluation and negotiations rather than political considerations.