Maria Browne: China Has Never Been a “Fair-Weather Friend”

Housing Minister Maria Browne has described China as a dependable partner that has stood by Antigua and Barbuda, saying the grant-funded Pelican Court development demonstrates the strength of that relationship.

Speaking in an ABS interview after Thursday’s handover ceremony, Browne said the assistance reflected more than financial support.

“Although we are much smaller in size, they see us as their equal,” she said.

The approximately EC$50 million development was provided through a Chinese government grant, rather than a loan requiring repayment.

Browne said the project offered further evidence that China valued its relationship with Antigua and Barbuda and was prepared to support improvements in the lives of its people.

“They’ve never been ones to be fair-weather friends,” she said.

“What they say is what they mean. And once they’re committed to us, they’re committed.”

The minister said the relationship had been strengthened over decades, with Antigua and Barbuda maintaining its commitment to the One-China policy and its wider diplomatic partnership with Beijing.

She characterised the support as reciprocal, saying Antigua and Barbuda had stood by China and China had, in turn, stood by the country.

“It is easily the most meaningful and beneficial relationship we have across the waters,” she said.

Her comments followed the formal handover of 150 condominium homes intended to improve living conditions for former residents of Booby Alley.

Browne expressed gratitude to the Chinese government and people, describing the completed development as a powerful example of international cooperation producing direct benefits for families.