Prime Minister Gaston Browne is in Dubai this week to participate in the World Governments Summit (WGS) 2026, scheduled for February 3–5.

The annual summit brings together Heads of State and Government, senior public officials, global CEOs, and leaders of international organisations for high-level discussions on governance, innovation, and sustainable development.

During the summit, Prime Minister Browne will represent Antigua and Barbuda in a series of main sessions, high-level panel discussions, and strategic engagements. His participation will focus on tourism-driven development, investment, creativity, and sustainability—areas in which Antigua and Barbuda continues to be recognised as a leader among small island developing states.

Speaking ahead of his departure, Prime Minister Browne emphasised the importance of the country’s presence at the global forum.

“The World Governments Summit provides an invaluable platform for small states like Antigua and Barbuda to influence global policy conversations, attract strategic investment, and share practical solutions rooted in resilience, innovation, and sustainable development,” he said.

As part of the programme, the Prime Minister is expected to attend major summit sessions, engage in bilateral meetings, and participate in the Future of Tourism Roundtable. There, he will share Antigua and Barbuda’s experience in positioning tourism as a cornerstone of economic opportunity while advancing resilience-focused planning and sustainability initiatives.

Prime Minister Browne is also slated to contribute to discussions on the experience economy, including the role of luxury, creativity, cultural heritage, and tourism in shaping national identity and strengthening global soft power. These sessions will explore how governments can partner with the private sector to drive innovation while safeguarding environmental and cultural assets.

“Our participation allows us not only to learn from global best practices, but also to demonstrate how Antigua and Barbuda has successfully leveraged tourism, infrastructure development, and strategic partnerships to drive inclusive growth,” the Prime Minister added.

In addition to formal summit sessions, Prime Minister Browne will engage with international media and take part in select institutional and innovation-focused visits organised by the summit hosts. These engagements are aimed at strengthening cooperation in areas such as technology, sustainability, and future-oriented governance.

On Tuesday, February 3, Prime Minister Browne is scheduled to attend a main summit session and participate in a series of bilateral meetings, including discussions with Zimbabwe’s Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Trade, Amon Murwira. Talks are expected to focus on strengthening bilateral relations and Zimbabwe’s request for support in its bid for a seat on the United Nations Security Council for the 2027–2028 term.

Prime Minister Browne is expected to return to Antigua and Barbuda following the conclusion of the summit on February 5, 2026.