US Port Technology Grant Awaits Third Country Nationals Agreement
Sub headline: Browne Says US Grant for Port Technology Changes Is Linked to TCN Agreement
Prime Minister Gaston Browne says he has been advised that a United States grant to replace technology at Antigua and Barbuda’s port is awaiting completion of an agreement concerning third-country nationals.
Speaking on the Browne and Browne Show, Browne said US officials had raised concerns about Chinese-installed information technology at the port.
He said the government was willing to replace the system if the United States
provided the funding.
According to Browne, Port Manager Darwin Telemaque had recently informed him that a grant had been approved but would be made available after completion of the third-country national agreement.
Browne did not announce that the agreement had been concluded or provide details of its terms during that portion of the programme.
The Prime Minister defended Antigua and Barbuda’s relationship with China, describing it as focused on commercial cooperation and national development.
He said Chinese assistance had supported major infrastructure projects and rejected suggestions that the relationship was intended to threaten US interests.
Browne also stressed the importance of maintaining ties with Washington, citing the United States’ role as a major tourism source market and supplier of goods.
He said the country’s foreign policy should deliver practical benefits for its people.
This story was first published by Antigua News on : antigua.news/2026/10/05/us-port-technology-grant-awaits-third-country-nationals-agreement. © 2026 Antigua News. Republication without permission is not allowed.

About the author
Shermain Bique-Charles is an accomplished journalist with over 24 years of dynamic experience in the industry. Renowned for her exceptional storytelling and investigative skills, she has garnered numerous awards that highlight her commitment to journalistic integrity and excellence. Her work not only informs but also inspires, making her a respected voice in the field.
Read our editorial standards and corrections policy. Spotted an error? Contact the newsroom.
More from Antigua and Barbuda
View section
Greene Salutes More Than 600 Volunteers Behind Commonwealth Summit
Greene salutes more than 600 CHOGM volunteers as the face of Antigua and Barbuda’s hospitality and a symbol of national unity.
By Shermain Bique-Charles
King Charles III and Queen Camilla Join Antigua for CHOGM Interfaith Service
The King and Queen joined Prime Minister Gaston Browne, religious leaders and members of the community at the St. John’s Pentecostal Church – House of Restoration Ministries for a service centred on prayer, reflection and unity.
By Cory Wayland
‘Watch This Space’: Botchwey Pledges Action at Antigua CHOGM
Commonwealth Secretary-General says Antigua summit will deliver investment partnerships and initiatives to strengthen resilience and opportunity.
By Shermain Bique-Charles
Browne Calls for Greater Economic Independence as Antigua and Barbuda Turns 45
Prime Minister urges shared prosperity and national unity while acknowledging household pressures and challenges facing the Citizenship by Investment Programme.
By Shermain Bique-Charles
Comments (4)
RME October 5, 2026, 1:40 PM
What stupidness did i just read?
ReplyRight October 5, 2026, 2:45 PM
Just reading this makes my head spin. So we tossing aside China because of the US only to be rejected by the US after while they send criminal elements to this country ya?
ReplyApex Jones October 6, 2026, 12:45 PM
So before they release the money we have to accept their third-country nationals. Talk about grabbing someone by the balls
ReplyMaui October 9, 2026, 1:24 PM
I can imagine the Chinese may be offended by this . I would be. It was great getting the Chinese money or investors but now they are tossed aside?Sad. On the other hand didn't we see this coming a mile away?
Reply