Prime Minister Gaston Browne says his Government remains hopeful that the United States will reverse new visa restrictions imposed on Antiguan and Barbudan citizens, warning the measures are causing significant disruptions to travel for families, students and businesses.
According to Antigua News Room, Browne made the remarks on the sidelines of the 51st CARICOM Heads of Government Meeting in Saint Lucia, where he outlined the wide-ranging impact of the revised US policy on citizens travelling for education, business and family visits.
The changes reduce visitor visas from the previous 10-year multiple-entry permits to single-entry visas valid for three months. Some applicants may also be required to pay a bond of up to US$15,000. The restrictions were introduced following US concerns over Antigua and Barbuda's Citizenship by Investment (CBI) Programme.
Browne said his Government has not yet received official confirmation from Washington on whether the measures will remain in place, but expressed optimism that they were intended to be temporary.
The Prime Minister reaffirmed Antigua and Barbuda's commitment to its relationship with the United States, describing the country as the nation's most important development partner and its largest source of imports and visitors.
Browne also confirmed that discussions are ongoing regarding a proposed agreement to accept third-country nationals deported from the US. He indicated Antigua and Barbuda is willing to participate in such an arrangement, provided it includes safeguards to protect national security and prevent individuals with criminal backgrounds from entering the country.
The Prime Minister said his Government will continue engaging US officials in pursuit of restoring the previous visa arrangements, while sustaining strong diplomatic and economic ties between the two nations.
