Government of A&B says there is no threat of visa or visitation withdrawals from US over Cuba relations

Director General of Communication in the Prime Minister’s Office, Maurice Merchant, has stuck a fork in some of the talk flying around the rumor mill concerning Cuba/United States foreign policy. Speaking at the weekly Post Cabinet press conference, Mr. Merchant vehemently denies that the US government has tried to strong arm Antigua and Barbuda over its relationship with Cuba.

“Some fake news were circulating about Antigua and Barbuda being banned and visas being denied, and all sorts of blockage because of the relationship between Antigua and Barbuda and Cuba”, said Merchant.

“I can say to you that the United States Government – as was reported previously – voiced some concerns…the United States government says that it believes that our program and the program that is being carried out within the region by countries who utilize the medical services of individuals from Cuba – the United States believes that is human trafficking. We have a different view.”

It was recently reported that the United States Department of State has formally urged the government of Antigua and Barbuda to implement stronger safeguards for Cuban workers employed in the twin-island nation. Washington’s appeal highlights ongoing worries regarding allegations of coercion in Cuban overseas labor programs, especially within the health and education sectors.

Mr. Merchant acknowledges the ongoing dialogue between the United States and Antigua & Barbuda about Cuba, admitting that certain modifications will be made in order to remain in good diplomatic standing with both countries.

“The government has decided that it is going to make certain adjustments, to demonstrate to the United States, that while the Republic of Cuba remains a significant partner to Antigua and Barbuda’s healthcare delivery – and also the development of Antigua and Barbuda – that it values the relationship with the United States and therefore the United States’ concerns will be addressed, or are being addressed”, the Director General explained.

However, Mr. Merchant gives a firm guarantee that the citizens of Antigua and Barbuda need not worry about their prospects of traveling to the US.

“There is no threat of any withdrawal of visitations by officials from the United States, or Antiguans and Barbudans not being able to get visas to go to the United States.”