Prime Minister Gaston Browne says Antigua and Barbuda values its relationship with the United States but will not allow that relationship to undermine the country’s right to pursue its own development.

Speaking on the Browne and Browne Show on Pointe FM on Saturday, Browne said the United States remains Antigua and Barbuda’s most important trading partner, noting that “about 80 per cent of our trade is with the United States,” but stressed that the relationship must be grounded in mutual respect.

“We’re not going to jeopardise that relationship,” Browne said. “But at the same time, we should be able to pursue our own development without being threatened, or being ostracised, or for that matter, to be bullied or anything of that nature.”

The prime minister made the remarks while discussing Antigua and Barbuda’s growing role in global diplomacy, including preparations to host the Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting later this year. He said the country’s ability to attract major international conferences demonstrates that it is no longer a marginal player on the world stage.

“We’re no longer an insignificant state,” Browne said, adding that Antigua and Barbuda is now “literally engaging in global advocacy on a number of issues.”

Browne said the government remains committed to constructive engagement with Washington and other international partners, but insisted that development decisions must be guided by national priorities rather than external pressure.

“The United States is our most important trading partner,” he said, “but we also have to ensure that we protect our sovereignty and our right to develop.”

He said Antigua and Barbuda’s economic performance and rising per-capita income have strengthened its international standing and bargaining power, allowing the country to engage partners from a position of greater confidence.

Browne said his administration will continue to balance diplomacy with independence as it works to advance economic growth and protect national interests.