Congrats, Joe Biden!

THE EDITOR, Madam:

Following is the letter of congratulation sent by Prime Minister of Antigua and Barbuda, Gaston Browne, to Joe Biden, president-elect of the United States.

Dear President-Elect Biden,

On behalf of the people and Government of Antigua and Barbuda, and on my own behalf, I congratulate you warmly on your election as the 46th president of the United States of America.

I recall our work together, while you served as Vice President, to advance the security and well-being of the United States and its neighbours in the Caribbean. I especially recall, with appreciation, the work that you had started on building security in energy and my participation with you in conferences to facilitate progress in this vital area.

Allow me also to note that today, November 7, 2020, marks 48 years to the day when you were first elected to Congress as a 29-year old. Your stamina and energy, and most importantly, your commitment to public service for the people of the United States have been exemplary and outstanding.

As you begin to plan for your assumption of office in January 2021, I know that you will be cognizant that the Caribbean is the “third border” of the United States and that our governments have a joint responsibility to cooperate in economic and social development that will keep our collective neighbourhood prosperous. I greatly look forward to our two governments working closely together to meet the great challenges of our time, including ending the COVID-19 pandemic, restoring our economies to full strength, putting our people into the fullest employment possible, tackling the existential threat posed by climate change, and making our world a safer place for all.

I wish you every success as you prepare to take up office, and I pray for the success of your administration and for the well-being of all people of the United States.

GASTON BROWNE

Prime Minister of Antigua and Barbuda