Cape Verde President Urges US Talks Over New Visa Rules
President José Maria Neves of Cape Verde is calling for urgent diplomatic dialogue with the United States following the implementation of strict new visa restrictions that threaten the mobility of the archipelago’s vast diaspora. The move comes as the U.S. imposes restrictive financial bonds and suspension measures on Cape Verdean citizens.
Historical Ties Under Pressure
Speaking to Televisão de Cabo Verde (TCV), President Neves emphasized the deep historical roots connecting the two nations. He reminded officials in Washington that Cape Verdeans were among the first free Africans to arrive in America—predating U.S. independence—and have contributed centuries of labor and culture to the development of the United States.
“We must continue to dialogue with the U.S. government to show the importance of our community,” Neves stated. “Cape Verdeans are part of the heritage of that country, yet they often suffer the stigma of being immigrants in their host nations.”
Strict New Measures
As of late January, Cape Verde was added to a list of 38 states where citizens traveling for business or tourism may be required to post a bond of up to $15,000 (€12,876). Furthermore, the country is now among 75 nations facing suspensions in the immigrant visa process.
Foreign Affairs Minister José Luís Livramento warned that these decisions “gravely affect Cape Verdean citizens in their expectations of mobility,” while the President noted that the archipelago must do its “homework” to address the domestic issues that lead to such discriminatory external measures.
A Community in Limbo
The Cape Verdean Association of Brockton, a major hub for the diaspora in Massachusetts, has called on the home government to develop a “repatriation plan” to support emigrants who may be forced to return due to the tightening of U.S. policies on illegal presence and mobility.
In response to the crisis, Prime Minister Ulisses Correia e Silva recently conducted an official visit to the United States. His mission focused on strategic meetings with community leaders and elected officials of Cape Verdean descent to reinforce support networks.
Sporting Spirit Amidst Diplomatic Tension
The diplomatic friction arrives at a bittersweet moment for the nation. Despite the visa hurdles, Cape Verde is set to compete in its first-ever FIFA World Cup on North American soil later this year, an event that would usually see thousands of fans traveling between the islands and the U.S. to celebrate the historic milestone.
Image: Pexels – Ramaz Bluashvili
