Antigua and Barbuda will seek stronger trade and investment ties with Canada and explore cooperation on the movement of people during talks planned for Monday, Prime Minister Gaston Browne says.

Speaking on the Browne and Browne Show on Saturday, Browne said the discussions would take place during the Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting, with a bilateral meeting followed by broader talks between Canada and CARICOM.

“Our position is that we are trying to now enhance our relationship with Canada to increase trade and investments and to see how we can even collaborate on issues of the movement of people between Canada and Antigua and Barbuda,” he said.

Browne did not outline specific travel proposals or announce any agreement. He described the planned engagement as part of efforts to expand the country’s international relationships and create opportunities for citizens.

“We need friends,” he said. “As a small nation we have to continue to reach out to expand our reach and to make sure we create opportunities for people.”

The prime minister said bilateral discussions and other meetings on the sidelines of CHOGM would be important opportunities for Antigua and Barbuda to advance its interests.

He linked the Canada talks to a wider push for the Commonwealth to place greater emphasis on trade, investment and the sharing of technology.

Browne also wants larger Commonwealth countries to advocate for small island states in international forums, including the G20 and G7, where Canada is a member.

He said the government intends to pursue opportunities arising both during and after the summit to strengthen Antigua and Barbuda’s international representation and support its development.

This article was originally published by Antigua News Room. Read the original article here: Antigua and Barbuda to pursue trade and travel cooperation in Canada talks.