Antigua and Barbuda Hosts Historic First Caribbean–EU Parliamentary Assembly

Antigua and Barbuda is hosting a landmark international event this week as regional and European lawmakers gather for the First Sitting of the Caribbean–European Union Parliamentary Assembly at the Convention Centre of the American University of Antigua (AUA) from February 16–18.

The high-level Assembly brings together representatives from the Organisation of African, Caribbean and Pacific States (OACPS) and the European Union (EU) to deepen cooperation under the Samoa Agreement, with discussions centred on climate resilience, renewable energy, trade, security and the situation in Haiti.

The official opening ceremony on Monday morning featured an address by Prime Minister Gaston Browne, alongside participation from regional and European parliamentary leaders. Delegates will engage in three days of plenary sessions, panel discussions and strategic dialogues focused on strengthening EU–Caribbean partnerships.

Climate resilience and the region’s ongoing Sargassum crisis are high on the agenda, as parliamentarians examine pathways to accelerate the renewable energy transition and reduce vulnerability to climate change.

Experts from across the Caribbean and Europe are expected to explore concrete measures to enhance energy security and environmental protection.

Economic cooperation will also take centre stage, with discussions assessing the implementation of the EU–CARIFORUM Economic Partnership Agreement and exploring new investment opportunities under the EU’s Global Gateway initiative

Security concerns remain a critical issue for the region. Delegates will address transnational organised crime, including illicit trafficking and firearms smuggling, as well as examine regional stability and multilateral cooperation in resolving territorial disputes.

A dedicated session on Haiti will allow European and Caribbean parliamentarians to review the evolving political and security situation and discuss international responses aimed at stabilising the country.

In addition to the plenary sessions, Antigua and Barbuda is hosting a Women’s Forum under the theme “Women as changemakers in economy and business,” and a Youth Forum titled “From vision to action: empowering youth for climate resilience,” ensuring that gender equality and youth engagement remain integral to the partnership.

The Assembly concludes on Wednesday with the adoption of recommendations to the OACPS/EU Council of Ministers and a press conference, followed by field visits to national development sites.

The hosting of the Caribbean–EU Parliamentary Assembly further reinforces Antigua and Barbuda’s growing role as a regional diplomatic hub and underscores its commitment to multilateral cooperation on issues critical to the Caribbean’s future.