Prime Minister Gaston Browne has praised the diplomatic ties between Antigua and Barbuda and the People’s Republic of China, describing the relationship as a model of mutual respect that other nations should seek to replicate.

Speaking at Sunday evening’s Chinese New Year celebrations marking the Year of the Horse, Browne reflected on the shifting geopolitical climate across the hemisphere, noting that smaller states are increasingly facing pressure amid global power realignments.

(photo by Wayne Mariette)

Against that backdrop, he said the partnership between China — the world’s second-largest economy and population — and Antigua and Barbuda — one of the smallest nations by landmass and population — stands out as a powerful example of balanced diplomacy.

According to the prime minister, Beijing has never sought to pressure St. John’s into actions that conflict with the country’s national interest.

“China has not intimidated us, nor has it imposed demands that undermine our sovereignty,” Browne said. “The level of mutual respect between our countries demonstrates how large and small states can engage constructively.”

He pointed to growing cooperation beyond formal government channels, highlighting expanded cultural exchanges between the two nations. Nearly 300 Antiguans and Barbudans have travelled to China in recent years to experience its culture and deepen people-to-people connections.

Browne also underscored the benefits of visa-free access to China for Antiguan and Barbudan citizens and noted the absence of sanctions or restrictions between the two countries — elements he said reflect genuine partnership rather than coercion.

In a candid assessment of the current global environment, the prime minister acknowledged that Antigua and Barbuda could one day face pressure to distance itself from China. However, he made it clear that such a move would not be entertained.

“We must continue to stand with China,” he stated, adding that loyalty should be rooted not only in gratitude but also in a commitment to meaningful international cooperation.

Browne cautioned against choosing sides in volatile geopolitical disputes, warning that alliances can shift quickly. “What happens if we choose sides and then former rivals reconcile? We could find ourselves isolated,” he remarked.

Reaffirming the country’s long-standing diplomatic approach, the prime minister reiterated Antigua and Barbuda’s foreign policy principle: “Friends of all, enemies of none.”