ST JOHN’S, Antigua (CMC) – The Antigua and Barbuda government says it will publish a White Paper on proposals regarding third-country nationals (TCNs) being relocated in the country from the United States.

The Gaston Browne administration said that the White Paper sets out the background to the discussions, the issues engaged for Antigua and Barbuda, the government’s assessment of the proposals received, and the principles and conditions on which any cooperation could responsibly be considered.

“The government has determined that the matter engages important questions of sovereignty, legal responsibility, public finance, national security, social stability, and Antigua and Barbuda’s international obligations. It has therefore concluded that the issue should be addressed in a clear, orderly, and transparent manner,” Browne said.

The government said that the White Paper explains that Antigua and Barbuda “has approached the matter in a spirit of friendship and cooperation, while making clear that, as a small state with limited resources and limited absorptive capacity, it cannot responsibly accept open-ended obligations involving persons who are not its nationals and whose removal is sought by another country”.

The government further said that the White Paper will be laid before Parliament for debate at a Special Session to be convened for that purpose during the week of July 13, adding “this will afford Members of Parliament the opportunity to consider the matter fully and to express their views on an issue of national importance.

“In taking this step, the government reaffirms its commitment to transparency, accountability, and informed national discussion. Parliamentary consideration will ensure that Antigua and Barbuda’s position is examined in the nation’s highest representative forum,” the government added.

Last month, the Antigua and Barbuda Cabinet endorsed the recommendations and negotiating position outlined by Browne regarding ongoing discussions with Washington on accepting a limited number of non-criminal third-country nationals and refugees.

In supporting the prime minister’s position, the Cabinet noted the long-standing and mutually beneficial relationship between the two countries, adding that the United States remains one of the country’s “most important strategic partners, with cooperation spanning trade, investment, tourism, security, education, and development assistance.”

A statement issued after the Cabinet meeting said Browne had informed ministers that negotiations with United States officials have resumed following the submission of Antigua and Barbuda’s counter proposals and that “constructive dialogue continues between the two countries”.

The statement quoted Browne as emphasising that the government “must retain the sovereign right to determine who may enter and reside within the country”.