Tuvalu Seeks Assurance Amid U.S. Visa Ban Error Concerns

Tuvalu, a Pacific Island nation facing existential threats from climate change, is urgently pursuing written assurance from the United States, following its apparent erroneous inclusion in an expanded list of 36 countries subject to potential travel bans. This development comes amid heightened fears over climate migration, as a significant portion of the island's population has sought alternative residency options due to rising sea levels.

Internal communications, signed by U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio, leaked to media outlets like Reuters, revealed considerations to broaden existing travel restrictions. While Tuvalu was named, along with Vanuatu and Tonga, the U.S. Embassy in Fiji clarified the listing as a procedural mistake. U.S. officials have verbally reassured Tuvalu's representatives that current travel to the U.S. remains unaffected.

Tonga has already received a direct warning and is crafting a formal response, while Vanuatu has yet to comment publicly. Tuvalu continues to engage in diplomatic dialogue, seeking both clarification and a formal written statement, to safeguard its citizens' travel rights.

(With inputs from agencies.)