Sir Ronald Sanders, the ambassador of Antigua and Barbuda to the United States
Antigua and Barbuda is preparing to return to the negotiating table with the United States over a controversial proposal involving the possible reception of a limited number of third-country nationals removed from the US.
Ambassador to the United States Sir Ronald Sanders said the discussions are expected to resume shortly, following a request from the US Government.
The talks form part of a broader US initiative involving several countries, including a number of CARICOM member states.
Any discussions involving Antigua and Barbuda will be guided by a resolution passed in the House of Representatives on July 14, 2026, which established conditions and safeguards for the country’s participation in such an arrangement.
Under the parliamentary framework, Antigua and Barbuda would retain the authority to approve or reject each individual proposed for transfer. The arrangement would not allow for an automatic or open-ended programme.
The government would also require satisfactory arrangements to be made for issues including identification and documentation, accommodation and support, legal status, security, financing, and responsibility for the onward movement or return of individuals.
The renewed negotiations will be overseen by Prime Minister Gaston Browne, Attorney General and Minister of Legal Affairs Sir Steadroy Benjamin, and Foreign Affairs Minister E. Paul Chet Greene.
Sanders made clear that the discussions have not resulted in a final agreement.
He also stressed that no transfer of any third-country national has been authorised under the proposed arrangement.
The government said the purpose of the renewed talks is to determine whether terms can be reached that comply with the parliamentary resolution, Antigua and Barbuda’s laws and international obligations.
It also intends to ensure that the country’s sovereignty, security and financial interests are protected, while taking into account Antigua and Barbuda’s limited capacity to accommodate additional persons.
Officials said the public will continue to be updated on the progress of the negotiations and any significant developments.
So if when they come to the islands they willing to go back where they originally from why doesn’t the US give them the option to send them straight to their homeland?