A Historic Moment for Antigua and Barbuda: Embracing Leadership on the Global Stage

By E.P Chet Greene

As I stand at the helm of the OAS General Assembly, I am filled with a sense of pride and responsibility. Being elected as President of the General Assembly is not just a personal achievement; it marks a historic milestone for Antigua and Barbuda. For the first time, we are hosting this significant assembly and as the first Antiguan and Barbudan to assume this role, I am acutely aware of the weight of this moment.

Leading this assembly is an immense honor and I am privileged to guide our collective discourse as we focus on pressing issues affecting our region. The proceedings thus far have been rewarding and I’m pleased to say that they have unfolded smoothly under my direction. The praise I have received from member states and citizens validates my commitment to our shared principles of democracy and human rights, which lie at the very core of the Organization of American States (OAS).

I wish to express my sincere gratitude to Prime Minister Gaston Browne and my Cabinet colleagues for their unwavering support and encouragement. I also extend heartfelt thanks to Sir Ronald Sanders and the staff of the Secretariat for their dedicated efforts in making the 55th OAS General Assembly a resounding success.

I have endeavored to champion democratic values and defend the interests of our citizens. The warm words of support from my fellow delegates reaffirm my belief that these principles resonate deeply across the Americas. When we stand united in our commitment to democracy, we foster stability, development and social justice for all our nations.

Hosting the 55th OAS General Assembly in Antigua and Barbuda is a testament to our growing prominence in the international arena. This gathering underscores the vital role of small island nations in global discussions, often overshadowed yet pivotal in shaping collective actions on critical regional challenges such as climate change, economic development and security.

As we move forward in these discussions, I invite all citizens of Antigua and Barbuda to take pride in this moment. Your support empowers us to make meaningful contributions to the international community. I assure you that I will carry the values of our nation togetherness, resilience and a commitment to progress into these essential dialogues.

The time has come for us to not only celebrate this historic occasion but to also embrace the obligation it brings. It serves as a reminder that we, as a small nation, can play a significant role in influencing the agenda that affects millions throughout the Americas.

Let us all engage in this shared journey. Together, we can build a brighter future rooted in democratic values, mutual respect and unwavering commitment to the principles upon which the OAS was founded.

Antigua and Barbuda, stand up and be the proud nation we are, as we add our name to history’s page making a positive change while reaffirming our position on the world stage.