PM Browne praises China-Antigua ties as model of mutual respect

Antigua & Barbuda Prime Minister Gaston Browne has lauded the diplomatic relationship between Antigua and Barbuda and China, calling it a model of mutual respect that demonstrates how large and small nations can cooperate effectively.

Speaking at Sunday’s Chinese New Year celebration marking the Year of the Horse, Browne noted that in a shifting global landscape, smaller states often face pressure amid geopolitical realignments. In contrast, he said, China has never pressured Antigua and Barbuda to act against its national interests.

“China has not undermined our sovereignty or imposed coercive demands,” Browne said. “Our partnership reflects genuine mutual respect and constructive engagement.”

The prime minister highlighted growing cultural and people-to-people exchanges, including nearly 300 Antiguans and Barbudans visiting China, and praised visa-free travel and the absence of sanctions or restrictions between the two countries.

Browne emphasized Antigua and Barbuda’s foreign policy principle: “Friends of all, enemies of none,” underscoring that the nation will continue its strong, independent partnership with China despite global pressures.