(L-R) Minister Chet Greene, Dr. David Francis, Sir Vivian Richards, and H.E Karen-Mae Hill
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.
The gov using all avenues to champion that cause and that’s commendable
The real question is whether CHOGM will produce concrete outcomes or just statements of solidarity. Small island developing states have been raising these concerns for years, but progress on climate financing and trade equity remains slow.
Good to see Antigua and Barbuda raising these issues at the global level. Climate change, trade access and economic resilience are critical for small island states. A united CARICOM voice will be essential if the region wants to influence global policy.
Antigua and Barbuda must continue to push strongly for climate justice. Even if as if it looking like nobody listening,. Still push…
The shifting sands of regional alignment and collective action are fast fading as individual countries have decided that a collective approach is the least attractive option we have. With that backdrop in mind, I agree with the commenter who saud try anyway! A closed mouth, they say, doesn’t get fed, nor can a closed hand (or mind) receive. The idea that we may have to go this alone is an important reality to be factored in, and in do doing position and prioritize accordingly. Climate…trade…equitable and sustainable access to resources and other supports…a place for civil society to play a transformative role in design and platforming of essential pillars and desired results, and partnership with the public are all essential for our successes with regard to this incredibly vital undertaking. Kudos Mr. Minister Godspeed and uncommon favor be your constant companions as you champion the nation’s needs in these areas.
I am always excited when I see my people excell
I beleive we will get there somehow