Browne on Monday called for stronger security ties between the Caribbean and the European Union.

Prime Minister Gaston Browne warned that transnational organized crime threatens both regions. Moreover, he said crime networks respect no borders.

He addressed the inaugural Caribbean–EU Parliamentary Assembly in Antigua and Barbuda. During his remarks, he stressed the need for deeper cooperation. He pointed out that European Union territories sit close to Caribbean states. Therefore, he said, security collaboration is a practical necessity.

“We also recognise that European Union countries have a physical and lawful presence in the Caribbean,” Browne said. He noted that territories from both regions lie next to each other in the Caribbean Sea. As a result, he added, both sides share concerns about cross-border crime.

Furthermore, Browne identified key areas for action. He highlighted intelligence-sharing as a top priority. In addition, he called for stronger maritime cooperation. He also urged closer judicial collaboration. Finally, he stressed the need for firm financial-crime interdiction.

According to Browne, these steps can deliver real results. He said the partnership can produce concrete gains for both regions. Consequently, he urged lawmakers to move beyond talk and focus on action.

However, he framed security as part of a broader partnership. He said engagement with the European Union must go beyond trade and investment. Instead, it should include multidimensional security.

For example, he pointed to food and energy security. He also mentioned health resilience. In addition, he cited protection against climate disruption. Together, he said, these issues shape long-term stability.

The three-day Assembly operates under the Samoa Agreement framework. It brings together European and Caribbean parliamentarians. They aim to strengthen cooperation on climate change, trade, governance, and regional stability.

In closing, Browne stressed the stakes for small states. Effective security cooperation protects political stability. It also supports economic credibility. At the same time, it safeguards European interests in the wider Atlantic space.

Therefore, Browne urged united action. He said shared threats demand shared solutions.