Prime Minister Gaston Browne says the Eastern Caribbean should pursue a shared information and communications technology (ICT) network linking OECS member states, revealing that discussions are underway with the European Union to develop regional subsea cable infrastructure aimed at lowering broadband costs and improving connectivity.

Speaking Thursday during the 113th Meeting of the Eastern Caribbean Central Bank’s Monetary Council in Dominica, Browne said the proposed network forms 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 that would connect 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 proposal comes alongside discussions to expand renewable energy infrastructure across the region, with Browne emphasizing that investments in technology and energy are essential to improving 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, strengthening regional energy security while lowering electricity costs.

Browne made the remarks as he reflected on his tenure as chairman of the Monetary Council, outlining initiatives designed to support long-term economic growth and greater regional integration across the Eastern Caribbean Currency Union.

This article was originally published by Antigua News Room. Read the original article here: Antigua and Barbuda Calls for Shared OECS ICT Network to Deliver Faster, Cheaper Broadband.