The Ministry of Foreign and CARICOM Affairs wishes to address recent media commentary and clarify our position regarding the matter involving Mr. Thomas Vasquez, a Trinidad and Tobago national currently in Antigua and Barbuda.

It has come to our attention that certain media interpretations—most notably those referenced in the Newsday editorial of May 7th—have misrepresented the actions of the Honourable Minister of Foreign and CARICOM Affairs, Mr. Sean Sobers.

Let us be unequivocally clear: at no point did Minister Sobers instruct any action that would constitute interference in the internal affairs of Antigua and Barbuda.

Rather, the Minister, in keeping with his solemn duty to the people of Trinidad and Tobago, directed Ministry officials to engage with their counterparts in Antigua and Barbuda to secure accurate and timely information regarding the welfare of Mr. Vasquez. Such engagement is both standard diplomatic practice and a reflection of the government’s unwavering commitment to the safety, dignity, and rights of all our citizens abroad.

This government was elected to act in the interest of all the citizens of Trinidad Tobago and Minister Sobers has discharged his responsibilities with professionalism, prudence, and firmness.

Therefore, the alleged statement made by the Minister that may have been deemed inappropriate, still needs to be identified for clarity on this issue.

Trinidad and Tobago and Antigua and Barbuda share strong, respectful, and enduring ties—built on principles of mutual respect and Caribbean solidarity.

We continue to work constructively with our counterparts in Antigua and Barbuda and thank them for their cooperation thus far. We expect that all communication will remain within the bounds of respectful diplomacy.

This Minister will stand firm, act decisively, and represent the people of Trinidad and Tobago with honour and strength.