PM Gaston Browne has praised ties between Antigua and Barbuda and the People’s Republic of China.

He described the relationship as a model of mutual respect.

Moreover, he said other nations should seek to replicate it.

Browne spoke during Sunday evening’s Chinese New Year celebrations.

The event marked the Year of the Horse.

At the same time, he reflected on shifting global geopolitics.

He noted that global power realignments are increasing pressure on smaller states.

Against that backdrop, he highlighted the China–Antigua partnership.

He said the relationship shows balanced and respectful diplomacy.

Importantly, he compared the size of both countries.

China is the world’s second-largest economy and population.

Meanwhile, Antigua and Barbuda ranks among the smallest by landmass and population.

Nevertheless, Browne said the partnership remains equal and fair.

According to the prime minister, China has never pressured Antigua and Barbuda.

He said Beijing has not forced actions against national interests.

“China has not intimidated us,” Browne stated.

He added that China has not imposed demands undermining sovereignty.

Furthermore, he said mutual respect defines the relationship.

He stressed that large and small states can engage constructively.

Beyond diplomacy, Browne pointed to cultural cooperation.

He highlighted growing exchanges between the two countries.

In recent years, nearly 300 Antiguans and Barbudans visited China.

Those visits allowed cultural learning and deeper people-to-people ties.

Additionally, Browne noted visa-free access to China.

He said citizens benefit directly from this arrangement.

He also highlighted the absence of sanctions or restrictions.

According to him, this reflects partnership rather than coercion.

However, Browne offered a candid view of the global climate.

He acknowledged future pressure to distance Antigua and Barbuda from China.

Even so, he made his position clear.

“We must continue to stand with China,” he stated.

He added that loyalty should go beyond gratitude.

Instead, he said it must support meaningful cooperation.

Moreover, Browne warned against choosing sides in global disputes.

He said alliances can change quickly.

“What happens if rivals reconcile?” he asked.

He warned that isolation could follow.

Finally, Browne reaffirmed national foreign policy.

He repeated Antigua and Barbuda’s guiding principle.

“Friends of all, enemies of none,” he concluded.