Foreign Affairs Minister E.P. Chet Greene says Antigua and Barbuda intends to use the upcoming Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting (CHOGM) 2026 to strongly advocate for issues critical to small island developing states, including climate change, trade and sustainable development.

Greene made the remarks on the sidelines of today’s Commonwealth Day Service at Westminster Abbey in London.

According to the Foreign Affairs Minister, climate change will be one of the most urgent issues raised by Antigua and Barbuda during the meeting. He emphasized that small island states continue to face disproportionate threats from rising sea levels, stronger storms and other climate-related impacts, while often having the least resources to respond.

Greene also pointed to the importance of improving trade opportunities and strengthening sustainable development policies for smaller economies.

He said CHOGM will provide an important platform for leaders to discuss practical solutions that support economic resilience and long-term growth in vulnerable nations.

The minister further highlighted the role of CARICOM foreign ministers, stressing that greater collaboration across the Caribbean will be critical in presenting a unified regional position during the Commonwealth meeting.

Greene said Caribbean countries must work closely together to ensure their collective voice is heard on matters such as regional security, economic recovery and climate resilience, particularly as the region continues to face global economic pressures and environmental challenges.