Caracas, Venezuela – Antigua and Barbuda’s Prime Minister Gaston Browne has called for the establishment of an ALBA transportation mechanism to enhance regional connectivity and trade. Speaking at the XXIV Summit of Heads of State and Government in Caracas, Browne suggested leveraging existing assets like LIAT and Conviasa airlines to address critical challenges in moving goods and people across member states.
“This initiative is vital to strengthening our integration movement and ensuring the viability of our shared vision,” Browne emphasized during the summit, which marked the 20th anniversary of the Bolivarian Alliance for the Peoples of Our America-People’s Trade Treaty (ALBA-TCP).
Prime Minister Browne highlighted the importance of transportation in supporting initiatives like Agro-ALBA, a program offering 25,000 acres of Venezuelan farmland to member states to enhance food security. He acknowledged the persistent droughts affecting Antigua and Barbuda and noted that access to arable land could address food insecurity, provided transportation challenges are resolved.
“This is a transformative project, but reliable sea and air transportation are essential to its success,” he said. Browne praised the Agro-ALBA initiative for promoting sustainable development, food sovereignty, and poverty reduction, calling it a “win-win” for member states.
Browne also warned of looming global economic threats, including a potential trade war between the United States and China, which could exacerbate vulnerabilities in ALBA-TCP economies. He urged member states to prioritize market diversification and interregional trade to reduce reliance on external markets and mitigate the impact of global economic shocks.
“Our economies, particularly those of small island developing states, are highly susceptible to price shocks. Strengthening regional trade will help us build resilience and ensure economic stability,” he stated.
Reaffirming Antigua and Barbuda’s commitment to ALBA-TCP’s principles, Browne voiced unwavering support for President Nicolás Maduro and condemned foreign interference in Venezuela’s internal affairs. He also called for an end to unilateral sanctions imposed on Cuba, Venezuela, and Nicaragua, describing them as unjust measures that undermine sovereignty.
“Our hemisphere must remain a zone of peace,” Browne declared, stressing the importance of non-intervention and territorial integrity as fundamental values of the alliance.
As the alliance marked two decades of integration, Browne praised its accomplishments, including programs like Petrocaribe, which he credited with providing critical support to member states during global crises. He highlighted initiatives such as the Mission Miracle healthcare program and the ALBA Bank as examples of successful collaboration aimed at eradicating poverty and social inequality.
“Our founding fathers, Fidel Castro and Hugo Chávez, envisioned a united region working together to achieve justice and equality,” Browne remarked. “Their legacy continues to inspire us as we navigate current challenges.”
Browne concluded by urging member states to build on the successes of the past 20 years and explore innovative ways to deepen integration. He called on leaders to strengthen tourism collaborations within the region, inviting attendees and viewers to visit Antigua and Barbuda for an unparalleled Caribbean experience.
“Let us continue to work collectively to ensure that ALBA-TCP thrives for the benefit of all our people,” he said. “Long live ALBA, and long live the Bolivarian Republic of Venezuela and its duly elected president, Nicolás Maduro.”
The summit served as a platform for reaffirming ALBA-TCP’s commitment to fostering regional solidarity, promoting sustainable development, and addressing the shared challenges of its member states.
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I’m pleased to see the Hon. Anthony Smith being included in the delegation. He has made the most prudent decision to separate himself from regressive and vindictive group of people. He’s growing by leaps and bounds in a short time span. A future leader and game-changer of Antigua and Barbuda