Prime Minister Gaston Browne has welcomed a statement from Trinidad and Tobago’s Minister of Foreign and CARICOM Affairs, Sean Sobers, clarifying that no attempt was made to interfere in Antigua and Barbuda’s internal affairs regarding a missing persons case involving a Trinidadian national.

Speaking on his weekly radio programme, Browne said he appreciated the diplomatic clarification and affirmed that both countries share “strong, respectful and enduring ties.” He emphasized that the Trinidadian government’s inquiries were appropriate and standard in international relations, describing Minister Sobers’ approach as “professional, prudent, and firm.”

Browne also reiterated that, based on available information, there is no definitive evidence that the man in question went missing while in Antigua and Barbuda. “He has had a history of coming to the country by plane and leaving clandestinely by boat,” Browne said. He noted that the young man reportedly worked on an illegal marijuana farm while in Antigua, and that speculation should not substitute for evidence.

While expressing empathy for the family of the missing man, the Prime Minister defended Antigua and Barbuda’s reputation, rejecting what he described as “hysterical” media coverage and politically motivated narratives aimed at damaging the country’s image. “Whereas we hope that the missing Trinidadian young man is safe, there is no evidence that he went missing in Antigua,” he said.

Browne also pointed out that the country has one of the lowest crime and homicide rates in the region and cautioned against attempts to manufacture a crisis. He criticized what he described as a “scaling attack” against Antigua and Barbuda by some media outlets and opposition elements, adding that even long-resolved missing persons cases from decades ago were being compiled to create a false impression of widespread disappearances.

He concluded by reaffirming Antigua and Barbuda’s willingness to continue engaging with Trinidad and Tobago through diplomatic channels, emphasizing mutual cooperation and regional solidarity.