Prime Minister Browne Praises India Ties During Farewell Visit by Outgoing High Commissioner

Prime Minister Gaston Browne has expressed appreciation to India’s outgoing High Commissioner, Dr. Amit Telang, for his role in strengthening diplomatic relations between Antigua and Barbuda and the Republic of India, during a farewell courtesy call ahead of the envoy’s departure at the end of his tour of duty.

Describing the meeting as “bittersweet,” Prime Minister Browne said that while Antigua and Barbuda is pleased that Dr. Telang is returning to New Delhi to take up a new assignment, the country is saddened by his early departure, having benefited significantly from his tenure.

The Prime Minister hailed the High Commissioner as a strong friend and ally, crediting him with deepening cooperation and expanding engagement between the two nations over the past several years.

During discussions, Prime Minister Browne underscored Antigua and Barbuda’s admiration for India’s development trajectory, noting that the country serves as an inspiration to small island states striving for resilient prosperity in a rapidly changing global environment.

He referenced India’s impressive economic growth over the last decade and its emergence as one of the world’s leading economies, reaffirming Antigua and Barbuda’s interest in further strengthening bilateral relations.

The Prime Minister also emphasized the importance of diversifying Antigua and Barbuda’s global partnerships, particularly amid growing uncertainty within traditional markets in North America and Europe. He noted that the Government is keen to expand opportunities in trade, investment, and development cooperation, including exploring direct trade links and new channels of economic collaboration with India.

A key area of discussion was the enhancement of people-to-people exchanges and improved mobility between the two countries to support trade and business development. Prime Minister Browne indicated that while visa arrangements are already in place, there may be scope to expand access to facilitate greater travel for businesspersons, investors, and students. He said increased mobility would help deepen cultural ties, boost trade, and strengthen long-term economic cooperation.

In response, High Commissioner Telang expressed sincere gratitude to Prime Minister Browne and the Government and people of Antigua and Barbuda, describing his tenure as both fruitful and impactful. He noted that bilateral cooperation intensified during his posting and commended Antigua and Barbuda’s leadership, including the successful hosting of the Small Island Developing States (SIDS) Summit.

He also conveyed India’s best wishes for the upcoming Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting (CHOGM) and reaffirmed India’s interest in continued engagement.

The High Commissioner further confirmed India’s willingness to support Antigua and Barbuda in priority areas, including renewable energy. He revealed that Indian companies have already visited the country and that discussions have advanced on solar energy initiatives, with a proposal nearing completion for submission through the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

Prime Minister Browne welcomed the prospective collaboration, highlighting Antigua and Barbuda’s interest in accessing financing and partnerships through India’s solar development initiatives. He reiterated the Government’s commitment to expanding renewable energy infrastructure, reducing reliance on fossil fuels, and pursuing stable, clean, and reliable energy solutions to enhance national resilience and sustainability.

At the conclusion of the visit, Prime Minister Browne extended best wishes to Dr. Telang in his new assignment and encouraged him to remain a strong advocate for Antigua and Barbuda within India.

He also expressed optimism that the incoming High Commissioner will build on the solid foundation established, as both nations pursue deeper friendship, expanded cooperation, and mutually beneficial progress.