On May 21, 2025, Antigua and Barbuda made a significant advancement in its diplomatic endeavors by officially opening an embassy in Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates (UAE).
This initiative underscores the twin-island nation’s dedication to strengthening its bilateral relationships with the UAE and expanding its influence in the Gulf region and beyond.
The opening ceremony was graced by the presence of Foreign Minister E.P. Chet Greene and was hosted by Ambassador Gilbert Boustany, who is the first resident ambassador of Antigua and Barbuda to the UAE.
The event also saw representation from the UAE, including the Minister of Tolerance and Coexistence, Sheikh Nahyan bin Mubarak Al Nahyan, and Minister of State for International Cooperation, Reem Al Hashimy, along with various diplomatic figures and important guests.
In his keynote speech, Minister Greene hailed the embassy’s inauguration as a pivotal moment in Antigua and Barbuda’s foreign relations strategy.
“This goes beyond mere ceremony; it is a firm commitment to establishing significant ties with the United Arab Emirates,” he remarked. He commended the transformational progress of the UAE, particularly its innovation, sustainability efforts, and role in global diplomacy, which serve as a guiding example for nations like Antigua and Barbuda.
Ambassador Boustany reiterated this vision, presenting the embassy as an essential diplomatic bridge and a platform for collaboration. Reflecting on over ten years of relationship-building with the UAE, he expressed gratitude for the unwavering friendship and assistance from the Emirati government.
“This embassy represents more than just a diplomatic office; it is a conduit for strategic collaboration, cultural exchange, and mutual innovation,” he stated. “We foresee a future of partnership that delivers tangible benefits for our people and promotes shared interests.”
Why do we need an embassy in Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates (UAE)? What is the population of Antiguan and Barbudan living there?
Foreign affairs minister seem to be clinging to where the money is.
Well that would be wise, wouldnt it? Money runs the world
So who are the people we putting to work in this office?
It will be interesting to know
I never really understood what these embassies do and what are their jobs really. If it has to do with diplomacy then ok. Anything else makes no sence. Huge embassies in countries with no staff. When it comes to these hand shaking jobs however, Chet is definitely the man for them