The Antigua and Barbuda Labour Party (ABLP) has strongly rejected claims made by Opposition Leader Jamale Pringle regarding United States visa restrictions, describing his statements as “false and misleading.”

In a statement issued by the party’s chairman and Minister for Foreign Affairs, the ABLP dismissed suggestions that the visa measures imposed by the United States are the fault of the Government of Antigua and Barbuda or that they can be reversed by any local political administration.

The statement pointed to comments from U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio, who recently outlined the expansion of visa restrictions targeting individuals deemed to be acting against U.S. national interests in the Western Hemisphere. According to the ABLP, the U.S. government has made it clear that visa decisions are solely within its jurisdiction.

“Getting a U.S. visa is not a right; it is a privilege which we alone decide,” the statement quoted, underscoring that such policies are determined in Washington and applied broadly across the region.

The party emphasized that Antigua and Barbuda is not uniquely affected, noting that several Caribbean nations are facing similar restrictions and that visa denials are a routine part of U.S. immigration policy.

The ABLP also highlighted ongoing diplomatic engagement between the two countries, revealing that Prime Minister Gaston Browne recently held discussions on the issue with U.S. Deputy Secretary of State Christopher Landau. The party said these efforts reflect a serious and responsible approach to international relations.

“It is through engagement and persistence that governments represent their people—not through empty promises,” the statement said.

The party further criticized Pringle’s remarks, suggesting they either reflect a misunderstanding of international diplomacy or an attempt to mislead the public for political advantage.

Reaffirming its position, the ABLP stated that U.S. visa policy is determined by American authorities and cannot be altered by local political rhetoric, insisting that the people of Antigua and Barbuda deserve clarity and honesty on the matter.