Saint Lucia and Taiwan have signed a treaty to boost cooperation on criminal matters, including exchanging information on criminal elements and situations. The treaty, which was signed on August 16 and October 26, 2023, is expected to provide a high level of comfort for both countries, as it will make it easier to investigate and prosecute crimes that occur across borders.
Under the treaty, the requesting state can contact the Central Authority in the other state, which in Saint Lucia is the Office of the Attorney General, to request information or assistance in investigating or prosecuting a crime. The treaty covers a wide range of crimes, including drug trafficking, terrorism, and money laundering.
Saint Lucia’s Minister for External Affairs, International Trade, Aviation and Diaspora Affairs, Alva Baptiste, said that the treaty is a sign of the strong relationship between Saint Lucia and Taiwan. He also noted that it is important to be prepared for the increasing threat of cybercrime.
The treaty is expected to come into force in early 2024.