By Aabigale McIntosh 

Antigua and Barbuda’s longest-serving diplomat, Sir Ramez Hadeed, will be accorded an official funeral. The service of Thanksgiving is scheduled for Wednesday, December 13^th, 2023.

Sir Ramez Hadeed passed away on Wednesday evening at the age of 80 years. According to reports, he was rushed to the Sir Lester Bird Medical Center, where he succumbed to his condition several hours later.

Prime Minister Gaston Browne led the tributes, expressing his sorrow on social media.

“Our last visit to Sir Ramez’s home was yesterday [Wednesday] afternoon. It was intended to be a surprise visit, only to be told that he was hospitalized a couple of hours earlier, from what appeared to have been a massive heart attack”.

Minister of Foreign Affairs, Agriculture, Trade and Barbuda Affairs, E.P Chet Greene recalled the close working relationship he shared with the senior diplomat. “As the Minister of Foreign Affairs, I had the opportunity to work closely with Sir Ramez and witnessed first-hand his dedication, passion, and commitment to Antigua and Barbuda’s interests.

Former Ambassador to the United States, United Nations, and Organization of American States, Lionel ‘Max’ Hurst, in reflecting on the contributions of Sir Ramez Hadeed said his death has robbed Antigua and Barbuda of a great talent.

Sir Ramez embarked on his diplomatic journey as the Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary for Antigua and Barbuda to the Syrian Arab Republic, the Republic of Iraq, and the United Arab Emirates.

In addition to his diplomatic role, Sir Ramez served as an Economic Envoy, actively promoting Antigua and Barbuda as a democratic nation open for business and eager to foster international relations. Notably, he secured support from the Kuwait Fund for Arab Economic Development during a time when few Caribbean nations could achieve such collaboration.

Beyond his diplomatic achievements, Sir Ramez is fondly remembered for his philanthropy and astute business acumen. His ventures in construction and finance provided employment opportunities for thousands of Antiguans and Barbudans, contributing significantly to the local economy.

In recognition of his outstanding contributions, Sir Ramez was awarded the Knight Commander of the Most Distinguished Order of the Nation (KCN) in 2001.

His honors were further elevated in 2022 when he received the Knight Grand Cross of the Most Distinguished Order of the Nation (KGCN).

A momentous investiture ceremony took place at Government House on December 1, 2023, where Sir Ramez was presented with his insignia.

Sir Ramez Hadeed’s legacy is intertwined with his commitment to diplomacy, economic development, and community welfare. His passing follows the earlier death of his wife, Lady Afaf Hadeed.