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Clara Montgomery
Vanuatu Government Defends Passport Initiative Amidst Travel Ban Speculations
The Vanuatu government denied receiving formal communication regarding its inclusion in a reported U.S. travel ban list. Vanuatu is categorized under the lowest tier of an immigration watchlist. The government defends its citizenship by investment scheme amidst criticisms of security deficiencies, while analysts note ongoing reforms. U.S. officials stated there is no official travel restriction list, but a review on visa security is in progress.
The Vanuatu government has clarified that it has not received formal communication from the Trump administration regarding its reported inclusion in a comprehensive travel ban list targeting numerous countries. A U.S. spokesperson has denied the existence of such a list, providing some reassurance amid mounting concerns. Vanuatu is reportedly categorized in the lowest tier of this immigration watchlist, making it the sole Pacific nation affected.
The travel watchlist is allegedly divided into three groups, as outlined by Reuters. The first tier, which includes countries like Afghanistan and North Korea, faces a complete visa suspension. The second tier includes nations such as Eritrea and Haiti, subject to partial bans impacting student, tourist, and immigrant visas while allowing business travel. The third group, which encompasses Vanuatu, may undergo visa issuance suspensions unless they rectify identified deficiencies in the upcoming 60 days.
Concerns raised by the New York Times suggest countries in this last category need to address security inadequacies related to passport issuance or citizenship sales to individuals from banned nations. In remarks made by State Department spokeswoman Tammy Bruce, it was asserted that there is no official list circulating concerning these restrictions, but a review for enhancing security in visa processes is ongoing.
The Vanuatu government has long faced scrutiny over its citizenship by investment (CBI) program, which facilitates citizenship acquisition through a $130,000 investment. Criticisms intensified when the European Union revoked Vanuatu’s visa-free access to its Schengen Area due to insufficient background checks, raising security concerns.
Recent revelations surfaced about Indian businessmen Atul and Rajesh Gupta acquiring Vanuatu citizenship despite facing corruption charges in South Africa. Additionally, Lalit Modi, a cricket administrator with a controversial past, sought to renounce his Vanuatu citizenship amid pressure from Indian authorities. In response, the Vanuatu government recently nullified Modi’s passport and revoked those of three Chinese nationals accused of fraudulent acquisition.
In defense of its CBI program, Vanuatu’s government stated that it has significantly enhanced due diligence and screening processes over the years, emphasizing a strict list of restricted countries that cannot apply for citizenship. They expressed openness to international feedback and reaffirmed commitment to a citizenship program that supports national development, particularly as traditional aid dwindles.
Pacific analyst Tess Newton Cain noted that Vanuatu has been reforming its CBI scheme in alignment with international best practices. She referenced leadership changes within the Citizenship Commission and significant recent reforms, although their effectiveness remains to be seen following these adjustments amidst new travel restriction narratives initiated by the Trump administration’s executive order on enhanced security vetting for foreign travelers.
The article discusses the Vanuatu government’s response to concerns over its citizenship program amid reports of being included in a travel ban. It outlines the government’s commitment to reforming its citizenship by investment scheme to meet international standards and emphasizes its importance for national revenue. Analysts suggest recent changes might indicate willingness to address past criticisms, while U.S. officials deny the existence of any formal travel restriction list. The situation remains fluid as the government navigates public scrutiny and international relations.
Original Source: www.benarnews.org
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