The Antigua and Barbuda government on Wednesday dismissed as false an online report suggesting that Canada had issued a heightened travel advisory for the twin-island Caribbean nation.
“Antigua and Barbuda is one of the Caribbean’s most peaceful democracies,” said the country’s non-resident High Commissioner to Canada, Sir Ronald Sanders, in a statement. “The country is politically stable, constitution-anchored, and committed to free and fair elections observed by international bodies.”
Sir Ronald emphasized that Canada’s official advisory for Antigua and Barbuda remains at “Take normal security precautions,” the lowest possible level. “There has been no upgrade and no new risk designation,” he said, rejecting claims published by Travel and Tour World.
He added that Antigua and Barbuda maintains low rates of serious crime compared to regional averages, citing data from the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime and the World Bank. “Violent incidents are rare, and our islands continue to enjoy a reputation for safety and tranquility among international visitors,” Sir Ronald noted.
The diplomat said the government has called on the publication to correct its report and to reference official Canadian sources properly. “Our welcoming people live by reputation and reality; we refuse to let careless reports blur either,” he said.
Sir Ronald, who also serves as Antigua and Barbuda’s ambassador to the United States and the Organization of American States (OAS), reaffirmed that the nation remains a safe destination for visitors. “We welcome Canadians as friends, investors, and family to a safe, vibrant, and law-abiding nation that keeps faith with its Constitution and with the travellers who honour our shores,” he said.
