Prime Minister Gaston Browne has defended Antigua and Barbuda’s expanding relationship with China, saying the country can work with both China and the United States without becoming involved in their geopolitical tensions.

Speaking at a Chinese Embassy reception marking the 77th anniversary of the founding of the People’s Republic of China, Browne said Chinese support had played a major role in the country’s development, particularly through infrastructure projects, education and healthcare.

He said the United States also remained an important partner, particularly in tourism and trade.

Browne described the two relationships as complementary, arguing that Antigua and Barbuda should remain open to opportunities from both countries.

He said Chinese assistance had included major projects such as the airport, seaport and cricket stadium, as well as concessional financing and donations over the past two decades.

The Prime Minister said the government wants to deepen cooperation with China in areas including housing, agriculture, tourism, manufacturing, renewable energy, electric vehicles and healthcare.

He also welcomed China’s commitment to a 150-home housing project, which he expects to be completed within the next 18 months to two years.

Browne said Antigua and Barbuda would continue to make decisions based on its own national interests, stressing that the country was “friends of all” and too small to take sides in conflicts between major powers.

This article was originally published by Antigua News Room. Read the original article here: PM Browne Defends China Ties: “No One Should Be Threatened by This Relationship”.