Gaston Browne, Prime Minister of Antigua and Barbuda, has expressed unwavering solidarity with Jamaica in the aftermath of Hurricane Melissa, drawing parallels to his nation’s recovery from Hurricane Irma in 2017. Speaking during a visit to affected areas in Westmoreland on November 17, Browne emphasized the resilience of Caribbean nations and the importance of unity in overcoming natural disasters.
Reflecting on Antigua and Barbuda’s experience with Hurricane Irma, which devastated the island of Barbuda, Browne highlighted the nation’s ability to rebuild stronger and better. He stressed that Jamaica, too, can emerge from this crisis with renewed strength.
Browne underscored Antigua and Barbuda’s tangible support for Jamaica, including the deployment of linesmen to assist with recovery efforts, a financial contribution to relief programs, and the planned dispatch of soldiers from the Antigua and Barbuda Defence Force.
Calling for international financial institutions to provide concessional financing for resilient reconstruction, Browne warned that the cost of inaction would be measured in lives and livelihoods. He urged Jamaica and the wider Caribbean to view rebuilding as an opportunity to create more robust and sustainable infrastructure.
“We are a small country, but our solidarity is mighty,” Browne declared, reaffirming his nation’s commitment to supporting Jamaica and advocating for resilient rebuilding across the Caribbean. His message was one of hope and perseverance, emphasizing the collective strength of Caribbean people in the face of adversity.