标签： Antigua and Barbuda

The United Progressive Party (UPP) has unequivocally endorsed the Caribbean Community’s (CARICOM) declaration designating the region as a Zone of Peace. In a formal statement released on Tuesday, the party emphasized its unwavering support for maintaining regional stability through peace and mutual respect. The UPP underscored its opposition to any actions that could jeopardize this vision, reaffirming its dedication to fostering harmony within the Caribbean and beyond. The statement highlighted the longstanding diplomatic ties between Antigua and Barbuda and the United States, as well as the cordial relations with Venezuela. The UPP also recalled the collaborative initiatives established during its previous administration, showcasing its commitment to international cooperation. The release concluded with a resounding call for peace, signed by key party leaders including Political Leader Hon. Jamale Pringle, Chairman Dame D. Gisele Isaac, General Secretary Sen. Shawn Nicholas, and Treasurer Leon George.

In a definitive statement, Prime Minister Gaston Browne of Antigua and Barbuda has declared that the twin-island nation has no intention of hosting foreign military installations or engaging in any form of military action. This announcement came ahead of a scheduled visit by U.S. Southern Command (SOUTHCOM) Commander Admiral Alvin Holsey, who is set to meet with regional leaders to discuss security cooperation. Browne emphasized that Antigua and Barbuda is committed to maintaining its current stance of not hosting military bases, a position he described as aligned with the nation’s interests and values. The U.S. Embassy in Bridgetown highlighted that Holsey’s visit underscores Washington’s dedication to enhancing regional security and stability in collaboration with Eastern Caribbean partners. Meanwhile, Grenada has confirmed it is reviewing a U.S. request to establish a radar system at the Maurice Bishop International Airport, signaling a nuanced approach to military cooperation in the region. Browne’s remarks reflect a broader Caribbean perspective on balancing sovereignty with international partnerships.

In a significant move to enhance the integrity of its Citizenship by Investment Programme (CIP), Antigua and Barbuda has introduced sweeping reforms. The changes, reviewed by a parliamentary select committee on Tuesday, include stricter residency requirements, mandatory biometric data collection, and enhanced due diligence measures. Prime Minister Gaston Browne, who chaired the session, emphasized that these reforms aim to align the nation’s CIP with global standards set by major jurisdictions such as the United States, Canada, the United Kingdom, and the European Union.

One of the most notable updates is the extension of the residency requirement for new citizens from five days to 30 days over a five-year period. While some critics argue for even longer stays, Browne acknowledged the challenges faced by busy businesspeople who may not have the flexibility for extended stays. Additionally, all new applicants will now be required to submit biometric data, necessitating the establishment of biometric centers across North America, Europe, Asia, and Africa. Existing CIP citizens will also need to provide biometric details during passport renewals.

Further measures include mandatory applicant interviews and strengthened background checks through the Joint Regional Communications Centre (JRCC). Browne also urged member states of the Organisation of Eastern Caribbean States (OECS) to harmonize their CIP implementation timelines to prevent arbitrage opportunities. He proposed a unified deadline of November 1 for all participating countries—Antigua and Barbuda, St. Kitts and Nevis, St. Lucia, Dominica, and Grenada—to pass and enforce the new legislation.

The bill, already endorsed by regional heads of government, is expected to undergo its second and third readings in Parliament later this week, with Senate consideration to follow. These reforms reflect Antigua and Barbuda’s commitment to bolstering international confidence in its CIP while ensuring transparency and compliance with global best practices.

In a significant move to enhance regional security, Admiral Alvin Holsey, Commander of the U.S. Southern Command (SOUTHCOM), held high-level discussions this week with Antigua and Barbuda’s Prime Minister Gaston Browne and Chief of Defence Staff Brigadier Telbert Benjamin. The meetings, held in Antigua, focused on deepening bilateral defense cooperation between the United States and the Caribbean nation. Key areas of discussion included combating transnational organized crime, curbing illicit trafficking, and bolstering border security across the region. Admiral Holsey underscored the importance of the partnership, describing it as vital to maintaining stability and security in the Caribbean. SOUTHCOM reiterated its commitment to collaborating with Caribbean nations to disrupt criminal networks that pose threats to both regional and U.S. interests. This visit is part of SOUTHCOM’s broader strategy to strengthen defense alliances in the Caribbean through initiatives such as joint training, maritime domain awareness, and humanitarian assistance programs, facilitated by the U.S. Embassy in Bridgetown. The discussions mark a continued effort to address shared security challenges and foster long-term cooperation in the region.

In a significant escalation of its anti-narcotics operations, the United States has conducted its fifth military strike on a vessel accused of drug trafficking off the coast of Venezuela. President Donald Trump announced the strike on Truth Social, claiming the boat was linked to “narcoterrorist” networks and was transporting narcotics. The attack resulted in the deaths of six individuals, bringing the total fatalities from such operations to 27 since September. However, the US has yet to provide concrete evidence or details about the identities of the vessels or those on board. The strike has drawn criticism from legal experts and neighboring countries, with accusations that the US is violating international law. Trump defended the action, stating that intelligence confirmed the vessel’s involvement in drug smuggling and its association with illicit networks. He also shared an aerial surveillance video showing the boat being struck by a missile. The strike aligns with a recent leaked memo to Congress, which framed the US as being in a “non-international armed conflict” with drug cartels. This classification potentially justifies the use of wartime powers, including lethal force against suspected traffickers. Critics argue that the strikes are part of a broader political strategy to pressure Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro, who has been accused of involvement in drug trafficking. The US has also deployed warships to the Caribbean, further intensifying tensions in the region. Maduro has vehemently denied the allegations, and Venezuelan officials have questioned the authenticity of the footage shared by Trump. The situation underscores the complex interplay between anti-narcotics efforts and geopolitical maneuvering in Latin America.