Prime Minister Gaston Browne and Nicholas Maduro[/caption]

Prime Minister Gaston Browne has congratulated Nicholas Maduro on his re-election to office.

The Venezuelan President was formally declared the winner of his country’s disputed presidential election on Monday.

The National Electoral Council, which is loyal to Maduro’s ruling party, announced his victory, granting him a third six-year term as the leader of an economy recovering from collapse and a population desperate for change.

In an official statement sent to Maduro, Browne highlighted the importance of engaging democracy, respect for sovereignty, tolerance, and good political relations in Venezuela, the Caribbean, and Latin America.

“Your determination to strengthen the bonds of friendship between Venezuela and the countries of the Caribbean Community has been remarkable. I stand in solidarity with you, the government and the people of the Bolivian Republic of Venezuela to ensure the continued Improvement and growth of your economy, culture, and political systems,” he said

Meanwhile, Browne said Antigua and Barbuda will continue to resist those efforts to interfere in Venezuela’s internal affairs.