ST JOHN'S, Antigua (CMC):

Prime Minister Baldwin Spencer yesterday called on the country's diplomats to forge alliances with other states to advance the country's cause in the ongoing Internet gambling dispute with the United States (US).

In an address during the annual meeting of ambassadors, consuls-general and honorary consuls general, Spencer stressed the need for strengthening partnerships with foreign countries, particularly at a time when the country is currently engaged in the major dispute with the US over the lucrative sector.

Antigua and Barbuda recently filed a US$3.4 claim with the World Trade Organisation (WTO) against the US for non-compliance with that body's ruling in the ongoing dispute over Internet gaming.