ST. JOHN’S, Antigua – The Antigua and Barbuda cabinet has endorsed the recommendations and negotiating position outlined by Prime Minister Gaston Browne regarding ongoing discussions with the United States to accept a limited number of non-criminal third-country nationals and refugees.
Prime Minister Gaston BrowneIn supporting the Prime Minister’s position, cabinet noted the longstanding and mutually beneficial relationship between the two countries adding that the United States remains one of the country’s “most important strategic partners, with cooperation spanning trade, investment, tourism, security, education and development assistance”.
A statement issued after the Cabinet meeting said that Prime Minister Browne had informed his ministers that negotiations with United States officials have resumed following the submission of Antigua and Barbuda’s counterproposals and that “constructive dialogue continues between the two countries”.
The statement said that Antigua and Barbuda’s Ambassador to the United States, Sir Ronald Sanders, is leading the negotiations on behalf of the government and “is actively engaged in advancing the country’s interests while ensuring that any agreement reflects Antigua and Barbuda’s laws, values and national priorities.
“Cabinet was further advised that Antigua and Barbuda has made it clear that it will not accept any individuals with criminal backgrounds and that comprehensive due diligence must be conducted in every case.”
It said that the government has insisted that “detailed reports be submitted on each individual, including information relating to criminal history, security assessments and health status, before any consideration is given to admission into Antigua and Barbuda”.
The statement quoted Prime Minister Browne as emphasising that the government “ must retain the sovereign right to determine who may enter and reside within the country.
“Cabinet was informed that Antigua and Barbuda has indicated a willingness to consider accepting a limited number of persons annually, estimated at between fourteen and sixteen individuals, subject to the strict screening and approval processes established by the Government.
“Consideration would also be given to skilled individuals whose qualifications and expertise could contribute positively to national development and economic growth,” the statement noted.
Meanwhile, Cabinet agreed that Antigua and Barbuda should continue to engage constructively with the United States administration on matters of mutual interest, including migration and border management issues, while ensuring that the country’s national security, public health and social interests remain fully protected.
“The government remains committed to maintaining strong diplomatic relations with the United States and will continue to pursue discussions in a manner that reflects Antigua and Barbuda’s sovereignty, humanitarian values and responsibility to safeguard the welfare and security of its citizens and residents,” the statement added.
