Senator Parker Warns PM Browne Against Reckless Talk that Exclusively Aligns Antigua and Barbuda with China or the USA

As a sovereign nation, Antigua and Barbuda does not need to choose between the United States and China, says United Progressive Party (UPP) Caretaker Malaka Parker, and she warns Prime Minister Gaston Browne against becoming a pawn in the geopolitical rivalry between the two super-powers.

Senator Parker is referring to Prime Minister Browne’s recent remarks at the Pelican Court handover ceremony, at which he contrasted his access to Chinese President Xi Jinping with his inability to secure a telephone call with US President Donald Trump.

She condemns PM Browne’s declaration that those wishing to punish Antigua and Barbuda for its relationship with China are free to do so – arguing that this country’s foreign policy should not be reduced to the prime minister's personal relationships, frustrations, or political bravado.

Senator Parker finds these remarks particularly troubling at this time, when Antiguans and Barbudans are already suffering under severe US visa restrictions and while critical negotiations on the proposed acceptance of third-country deportees remain unresolved.

“Our citizens are paying a real price,” the Opposition senator laments. “Students, families, sick persons, and business owners face barriers to opportunities, travel, and essential services. The Prime Minister should be working tirelessly to restore their access and protect their interests – not engaging in public rhetoric that risks complicating delicate diplomatic negotiations.”

Senator Parker notes that the UPP not only recognizes the longstanding friendship between Antigua and Barbuda and the People's Republic of China but worked to deepen the relationship during its tenure.

Under the Baldwin Spencer Administration, this country received genuine development assistance from China that saw the construction of the-then Five Islands Secondary School (now a University of the West Indies campus); the new terminal at the Sir V.C. Bird International Airport; the Sir Vivian Richards Cricket Ground; an extensive street-lighting project; and a number of tertiary-level scholarships, among others.

However, Senator Parker says, gratitude to China does not require hostility towards the United States, as the national interest demands constructive relations with both.

Meanwhile, the UPP is calling on the prime minister to tell the people whether the United States has actually threatened sanctions over our relationship with China; to disclose the status of negotiations on visa restrictions; and to assure the Nation that its foreign policy is guided by a coherent strategy rather than personal retaliation.

“Diplomacy is not a contest over which world leader answers the prime minister's telephone calls. It is the serious business of protecting the rights, opportunities, security and prosperity of our people,” Senator Parker reminds the public. 

“Our country must remain an enemy to none, a friend to all, and a servant only to the interests of the people of Antigua and Barbuda,” she concludes.