The United States has reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening commercial relations with Antigua and Barbuda, particularly in the energy sector.

In a congratulatory message marking Antigua and Barbuda’s 44th anniversary of political independence, US Secretary of State Marco Rubio said Washington values its partnership with the twin-island nation in advancing both regional energy and security goals.

“On behalf of the United States of America, I extend my congratulations to the people of Antigua and Barbuda,” Secretary Rubio stated. “We remain committed to working with Antigua and Barbuda to strengthen commercial ties between our two countries, including through partnerships in energy.”

He highlighted the ongoing collaboration between the United States and Antigua and Barbuda under the Caribbean Basin Security Initiative, which focuses on combating illegal arms and drug trafficking, curbing illegal migration, and disrupting transnational criminal networks.

Rubio said the US sees the growing partnership on liquefied natural gas (LNG) as a model for the region that will “lead to not only Antigua and Barbuda’s energy security, but also new commercial opportunities between the United States and Antigua and Barbuda.”

The statement follows recent developments in the energy sector, where American company Eagle LNG has partnered with the Hadeed Group to establish a new LNG power generation plant at Crabbs. Senior US official Michael Kozak previously visited the site in June and expressed Washington’s support for the project.

According to the US Secretary of State, the collaboration reflects a broader goal of deepening economic cooperation and building “safer communities and greater opportunities for all our citizens.”