Browne Says U.S.-Caribbean Engagement Long Overdue but Welcomes Rubio’s Outreach

Prime Minister Gaston Browne praised Secretary Marco Rubio for re-engaging with the region, calling it a break from “benign neglect” and a hopeful sign for deeper U.S.-Caribbean cooperation going forward.

Returning from high-level talks in Washington, Prime Minister Browne acknowledged that Rubio’s decision to meet with Eastern Caribbean leaders marked a significant shift in U.S. foreign policy toward the region.

“This is the first time in over a decade that a U.S. Secretary of State or any senior official has paid this level of attention to the Caribbean,” Browne said. “In the past, we were treated with benign neglect—like we didn’t even exist.”

Browne described the dialogue as “productive, respectful, and frank,” and said it laid the groundwork for regular, structured engagement between the United States and small island nations. He welcomed the opportunity to clarify key issues, including the Citizenship by Investment Programme (CIP), gun trafficking, and regional security.

“If the United States is serious about strengthening ties with its third border, there must be a mechanism for more consistent dialogue,” he said.

The Prime Minister said he remains hopeful that the discussions will lead to practical cooperation on shared challenges such as gun violence, migration, climate resilience, and trade.

“This meeting was a good first step,” Browne noted. “The United States benefits significantly from its relationship with the Caribbean—and we must now ensure that relationship becomes more balanced and responsive.”

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