Prime Minister Addresses Claims that potential U.S travel restrictions linked to CIP

Prime Minister Gaston Browne has responded to reports of a potential U.S. travel ban on countries operating Citizenship by Investment (CIP) programs, asserting that Antigua and Barbuda has long maintained safeguards to prevent sanctioned individuals from acquiring its citizenship. Speaking on his weekly Browne and Browne Show, the Prime Minister emphasized that his administration remains committed to ensuring that the country’s CIP program does not pose a security risk to the United States.

According to Browne, the U.S. government is reportedly considering restrictions on travelers from nations with CIP schemes due to concerns that sanctioned individuals could obtain alternative citizenships and use them to gain entry into the United States. However, he reiterated that Antigua and Barbuda has implemented strict vetting protocols to prevent such occurrences.

“We have had a long practice in our government from since 10 years ago when we first took over the governance of the country that whenever there’s any U.S. sanction, those individuals are not eligible for our citizenship,” Browne explained.

The Prime Minister reassured citizens that his government remains engaged with international partners to address any security concerns while preserving the country’s economic interests. He also cautioned against alarmist reactions, stating that any potential policy shifts by the U.S. should be viewed within a broader diplomatic and geopolitical context.

“I can’t tell the United States what to do, but any reasonable person will recognize that Antigua and Barbuda is not a threat to the United States,” Browne said. “We have been very cooperative, and we continue to work to ensure that our CIP program does not pose any risks.”

Browne also reaffirmed his administration’s stance on sovereignty, making it clear that while Antigua and Barbuda remains committed to good diplomatic relations, it will not allow its governance policies to be dictated by external pressures.

“Our interests are mutual. We recognize the importance of a prosperous United States, and we want to have a good relationship. But at the same time, we will stand on principle and defend our sovereignty,” he stated.

The Prime Minister’s remarks come amid ongoing scrutiny of CIP programs across the Caribbean, with some nations facing increased pressure to tighten regulations. According to Browne, the government of Antigua and Barbuda maintains that its program operates within the highest standards of transparency and due diligence to protect both national and international security.

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