Antigua and Barbuda rejects hosting US military assets

Prime Minister Gaston Browne has made it clear that Antigua and Barbuda has no interest in hosting foreign military installations or participating in any form of military activity.

“I can assure you that Antigua and Barbuda has absolutely no interest in hosting any form of military assets here in the country,” Browne told reporters yesterday, ahead of a visit by U.S. Southern Command (SOUTHCOM) Commander Admiral Alvin Holsey.

Browne said the twin-island nation is “happy” not to have any military bases and intends to keep it that way.

Holsey’s visit to the Eastern Caribbean, from October 14–15, includes meetings with Browne and Grenadian Prime Minister Dickon Mitchell. According to the U.S. Embassy in Bridgetown, the trip is part of Washington’s effort to strengthen regional security cooperation and promote stability in the Caribbean.

The visit comes as Grenada confirmed it is reviewing a U.S. request to install a temporary radar system and deploy technical personnel at the Maurice Bishop International Airport.

Grenada’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs said the proposal is being evaluated by the Ministries of National Security, Legal Affairs, and Foreign Affairs, in consultation with the Grenada Airports Authority and other relevant agencies.

“The Government of Grenada is carefully reviewing the request in accordance with established national procedures,” the ministry said in a statement. “Any decision taken will be guided by Grenada’s sovereignty, public safety, and national interest, including the protection of our tourism industry, the travelling public, and the country’s economic well-being.”

Officials said the public will be kept informed as discussions continue.