PM Browne Rules Out Hosting Foreign Military Assets in Antigua and Barbuda

Prime Minister Gaston Browne has made it clear that Antigua and Barbuda has no interest in allowing any foreign military presence on its shores, even as the United States seeks to deepen regional security cooperation with Eastern Caribbean nations.

Speaking ahead of a two-day visit by U.S. Southern Command Commander General Alvin Holsey, Browne reaffirmed his government’s position that the twin-island state will not host any form of military installation or equipment.

“I can assure you that Antigua and Barbuda has absolutely no interest in hosting any form of military assets here in the country,” the Prime Minister said in an interview.

General Holsey is scheduled to visit Antigua and Barbuda and Grenada from October 14 to 15, meeting with Browne and Grenadian Prime Minister Dickon Mitchell. The U.S. Embassy in Barbados said the visit highlights Washington’s ongoing commitment to working with Eastern Caribbean partners to advance regional security and stability.

While Grenada has disclosed that it is considering a U.S. request to establish a radar system at Maurice Bishop International Airport, Browne made it clear that Antigua and Barbuda will not be following a similar path.

Browne’s comments come at a time when the Caribbean continues to attract attention from global powers seeking greater engagement in regional security. However, the Prime Minister maintained that Antigua and Barbuda’s focus remains on peace, neutrality, and non-alignment in foreign affairs.