Prime Minister Gaston Browne Receives British High Commissioner During Credential Presentation Ceremony

PRESS RELEASE

St. John’s, Antigua and Barbuda – June 4, 2025 – The Government of Antigua and Barbuda welcomed the newly appointed British High Commissioner to Barbados and the Eastern Caribbean, His Excellency Simon Mustard during the official presentation of credentials to Prime Minister Gaston Browne. The meeting underscored the enduring strength of the Antigua and Barbuda–United Kingdom partnership and reaffirmed a shared commitment to advancing bilateral and regional cooperation.

Prime Minister Browne warmly received the High Commissioner, expressing gratitude for the United Kingdom’s longstanding support, including historical assistance with infrastructure projects, post-hurricane recovery in Barbuda, and educational development through initiatives such as the Chevening Scholarships.

“We continue to do all we can to strengthen not only the bilateral relationship between Antigua and Barbuda and the UK, but also the regional and sub-regional relationships between CARICOM, OECS, and the United Kingdom,” said Prime Minister Browne. He highlighted the UK-funded CIF facility, which contributed £14 million to rehabilitate two critical roadways, and praised the UK’s contributions to Barbuda’s post-disaster recovery and renewable energy development.

The Prime Minister emphasized the urgent need for climate action, citing the upcoming COP summit in Brazil and calling for the full capitalization and operationalization of the Loss and Damage Fund. “To build out climate-resilient infrastructure is practically beyond our means. Access to climate financing is essential,” he said.

Prime Minister Browne also announced that Antigua and Barbuda is preparing to host CHOGM (Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting) in November 2026, aiming for a transformative and impactful summit that will address key geopolitical issues and promote deeper Commonwealth collaboration.

In response, the British High Commissioner expressed appreciation for the Prime Minister’s leadership and reaffirmed the UK’s commitment to supporting climate resilience, regional security, and economic prosperity across the Caribbean.

“The UK remains an activist partner in the climate space and stands ready to support access to financing, regional resilience, and institutional capacity,” said the High Commissioner Mustard. He also noted the UK’s strong commitment to combating regional security threats, such as the illicit arms and drug trade, through collaboration with institutions like the Regional Security System (RSS) and international partners.

High Commissioner Mustard highlighted the UK’s interest in expanding collaboration on science, technology, innovation, and renewable energy, and pledged continued engagement to deepen economic ties and drive shared prosperity.

The interaction concluded with mutual expressions of goodwill and commitment to further strengthening one of the Caribbean’s most enduring and productive diplomatic relationships.