Browne Defends China Ties: “No One Should Be Threatened by This Relationship”

Prime Minister Gaston Browne has defended Antigua and Barbuda’s growing relationship with China, saying the country should be free to pursue development opportunities with both China and the United States without being drawn into geopolitical rivalry.

Speaking at a reception marking the 77th anniversary of the founding of the People’s Republic of China, Browne said Chinese assistance had contributed significantly to Antigua and Barbuda’s development, while the United States remained an important partner in tourism and trade.

“No one should be threatened by this relationship. It is complementary,” he said.

Browne described the United States as a “big brother” and China as a “big sister,” arguing that both relationships could benefit Antigua and Barbuda.

“Having a big sister is not a conflict having a big brother,” he said.

The Prime Minister credited China with supporting major infrastructure projects, including the country’s airport, seaport and cricket stadium, alongside assistance in education, healthcare and other sectors.

He said China had been Antigua and Barbuda’s most significant source of donations and concessional financing over the past two decades, helping to address development needs where access to other favourable financing was limited.

Browne argued that those investments also supported trade with the United States by improving the country’s economic capacity and residents’ ability to purchase imported goods.

He said the government wanted to attract more Chinese investment and expand access to electric vehicles, renewable energy equipment and technology for healthcare and education.

According to Browne, discussions were already taking place with Chinese healthcare officials about providing services in Antigua and Barbuda.

The Prime Minister also stressed the country’s right to make decisions in its own interests, saying it would pursue opportunities offered by either major power.

“We are respectful of all. We are friends of all,” he said. “We are too small to be having enemies or to be taking sides.”

Browne warned that instability between major powers could have serious consequences for small developing states, which remain vulnerable to rising import costs and disruptions beyond their borders.

He pointed to increasing energy costs as an example of how overseas conflict affects Antigua and Barbuda, saying global stability was essential to the country’s development.

The Prime Minister also welcomed China’s commitment to a 150-home project, saying he expected the homes to emerge over the next 18 months to two years.

He indicated that the government would seek further Chinese assistance for housing, agriculture, tourism, infrastructure and manufacturing.