The Antigua and Barbuda Labour Party (ABLP) has dismissed as “false and misleading” claims by Opposition Leader Jamale Pringle that the government is responsible for U.S. visa restrictions affecting Antiguan and Barbudan nationals.
In a statement issued by ABLP Chairman and Minister for Foreign Affairs E. P. Chet Greene, the party said visa decisions are made solely by the United States and cannot be influenced by local political actors.
The statement referenced comments from U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio, who recently outlined an expanded visa restriction policy targeting individuals deemed to be acting against U.S. national interests. According to the ABLP, these measures form part of broader U.S. foreign policy and are applied across multiple countries in the Western Hemisphere.
Government officials stressed that the issuance of U.S. visas is a sovereign matter, determined by Washington, and not subject to intervention by the Antiguan and Barbudan government or its political opposition.
The ABLP also rejected suggestions that an incoming administration could unilaterally reverse such restrictions, describing such claims as unrealistic and politically motivated.
The statement noted that Antigua and Barbuda is not unique in facing visa denials, pointing out that similar restrictions affect nationals across the Caribbean. It added that visa approvals and denials are governed by U.S. immigration laws and security policies, which apply regionally.
Highlighting ongoing diplomatic efforts, the government said it has been actively engaging U.S. officials on the issue. It cited recent discussions between Prime Minister Gaston Browne and U.S. Deputy Secretary of State Christopher Landau as part of continued efforts to address concerns and improve arrangements.
The ABLP accused the opposition of misrepresenting the situation for political gain, arguing that such statements risk misleading the public about how international relations and visa policies operate.
The party maintained that U.S. visa policy is determined in Washington and reiterated its position that responsible leadership requires diplomatic engagement rather than political rhetoric.
