Prime Minister Gaston Browne is calling on Eastern Caribbean nations to pursue a shared information and communications technology (ICT) network linking OECS member states. According to Antigua News Room, Browne revealed that discussions are already underway with the European Union to develop regional subsea cable infrastructure aimed at lowering broadband costs and improving connectivity across the region.
Browne made the remarks Thursday during the 113th Meeting of the Eastern Caribbean Central Bank's Monetary Council in Dominica, framing the proposed network as part of a broader regional strategy to strengthen economic resilience and modernize critical infrastructure.
He disclosed that the European Union is being engaged on plans to establish a common ICT infrastructure connecting OECS countries through subsea fibre-optic cables.
"Similar discussions are being held with the EU to develop a common ICT infrastructure, with subsea cables linking the OECS countries, to deliver more affordable and better broadband services," Browne said.
The ICT proposal comes alongside separate discussions to expand renewable energy infrastructure across the region. Browne stressed that investments in both technology and energy are essential to improving regional competitiveness and reducing the cost of doing business.
He also highlighted ongoing efforts to develop geothermal energy resources, noting that countries with geothermal capacity could eventually export baseload electricity to neighbouring islands — a development he said would strengthen regional energy security while driving down electricity costs.
Browne delivered the remarks while reflecting on his tenure as chairman of the Monetary Council, outlining a series of initiatives designed to support long-term economic growth and deepen integration across the Eastern Caribbean Currency Union.
