The Government of Antigua and Barbuda has pledged US$150,000 in humanitarian aid to Venezuela following a series of devastating earthquakes that have claimed more than 900 lives and left hundreds still trapped.
Prime Minister Gaston Browne made the announcement on Saturday, expressing the nation's deep sorrow over the loss of life, injuries, and widespread destruction caused by the disaster.
"On behalf of the Government and people of Antigua and Barbuda, and on my own behalf, I extend our deepest condolences to the families who have lost loved ones and express our heartfelt sympathy to Interim President Delcy Rodríguez, the Government of Venezuela, and the entire Venezuelan people at this time of immense grief and hardship," Browne said.
The Prime Minister drew a direct parallel to Antigua and Barbuda's own experience with natural disaster, recalling the destruction wrought by Hurricane Irma on Barbuda in September 2017. He highlighted Venezuela's critical role during that crisis, when the Venezuelan government provided aircraft to evacuate Barbuda's entire population to Antigua after the island was rendered uninhabitable.
"That compassionate act of solidarity and good neighbourliness remains deeply etched in the memory of our nation. It is an expression of friendship that Antiguans and Barbudans will never forget," Browne said, adding that the contribution now represents an opportunity to return that gesture.
"While modest in comparison to the scale of the need, this contribution is offered in the spirit of friendship, gratitude, and Caribbean and Latin American solidarity," he stated.
Browne also confirmed that Antigua and Barbuda stands ready to work with Venezuelan authorities and regional partners to explore additional practical assistance as relief operations continue and long-term recovery efforts get underway.
The Prime Minister used the occasion to underscore a broader message — that no nation is immune to the forces of nature, and that international cooperation is indispensable in times of crisis.
"The thoughts and prayers of the people of Antigua and Barbuda are with the people of Venezuela," Browne said. "We are confident that, with the resilience and courage for which they are renowned, they will overcome this tragedy and rebuild their communities."
He concluded by offering prayers for those who perished, wishing the injured a swift recovery, and expressing hope that the Venezuelan people will find comfort and strength in the difficult days ahead.
