Antigua publishes American proposals and counter-proposals

The government emphasized that no agreement has yet been reached with the United States. "The US document is a proposal and that of Antigua and Barbuda is a counter-proposal," stated a government press release, adding that the final decision on accepting or rejecting each proposed person for transfer remains in the hands of Antigua and Barbuda.

According to Sir Ronald Sanders, Ambassador of Antigua and Barbuda to the United States, these discussions aim to protect the sovereignty and national interest of his country. The Antiguan counter-proposal provides that each transfer be examined individually with written approval from the government of Antigua and Barbuda.

The US proposal limits transfers to a maximum of seven people over a three-month period, which is considered by Antigua as a ceiling and not a quota or obligation. Proposed procedures include requirements related to criminal background checks, health, immigration history, and travel documents.

The Antiguan counter-proposal also includes financial provisions to ensure that costs associated with reception do not fall on the country's taxpayers. It also includes a potential role for support from the International Organization for Migration (IOM), subject to agreements with the Antiguan government.

The government stressed the necessity that each transferee clearly understands that Antigua and Barbuda is their temporary destination and that their admission will be regulated by the laws of the country. The counter-proposal also includes provisions for the legal return or further orientation of these individuals.

Transparency and Sovereignty

The Antiguan government highlighted that the publication of these documents aims to ensure transparency on this issue directly affecting national sovereignty, security, law, and public finances. These discussions are part of a broader US initiative involving various regional countries.