PM Browne defends China ties as Antigua and Barbuda signs $14M grant

Antigua and Barbuda’s Prime Minister Gaston Browne has firmly defended his country’s growing partnership with China, following the signing of a US$14 million grant agreement and a Blue Economy feasibility study between the two nations.

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Speaking at the signing ceremony, Browne described China as a “reliable and principled partner” that has consistently supported Antigua and Barbuda’s development without imposing political conditions.

“China has been there for us, quietly, respectfully, and consistently,” Browne said. “From climate resilience and renewable energy to education, infrastructure, and healthcare, China has played a central role in building our capacity and lifting our people.”

He contrasted China’s approach with that of other global powers, stating: “Unlike others, China doesn’t ask us to take sides in geopolitical conflicts. They respect our sovereignty and support our development based on solidarity, not strings.”

Browne said the newly signed grant—targeted toward critical infrastructure such as the replacement of aging water pipes, housing, agriculture, and solar energy—marks the beginning of a new phase of implementation and brings the total value of Chinese development assistance to Antigua and Barbuda to nearly US$1 billion over several decades.

China’s Ambassador to Antigua and Barbuda, Zhan Yanling, described the agreements as “tangible outcomes” of recent high-level discussions between Chinese President Xi Jinping and Prime Minister Browne. She said the cooperation aligns with the goals of the China–CELAC Ministerial Forum and contributes to mutual goals of “peace, connectivity, and sustainable development.”

One of the agreements signed will support a technical feasibility study into Antigua and Barbuda’s Blue Economy potential. The study, to be carried out by Chinese experts, will explore sustainable marine-based industries such as aquaculture, eco-tourism, and marine research.

“This study will help us unlock the untapped value of our marine ecosystems and create new opportunities… vital for our long-term sustainability,” said Browne, who emphasized that ocean-based economic growth is central to the country’s “resilient prosperity” philosophy.

Reiterating Antigua and Barbuda’s commitment to global peace, Browne said: “Geopolitical conflicts don’t create value, they destroy it. We suffer the consequences disproportionately, which is why we advocate for peace and prosperity for all.”