Minister of State Freeland Heads to London for International Development Forum

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Junior Minister in the Ministry of Tourism Michael Freeland

Minister of State in the Ministry of Tourism, Michael Freeland,Michael Freeland, is expected to depart Antigua and Barbuda on Monday to represent Prime Minister Gaston Browne at the upcoming Global Partnerships Conference in London.

The high-level forum, themed “Global Partnerships Conference: Common Challenges, Collective Action,” is scheduled to take place from May 19–20, 2026, and will convene world leaders, innovators, philanthropists, civil society representatives, and business stakeholders to examine the future of international development partnerships.

The conference is being co-hosted by the Government of the United Kingdom, the Republic of South Africa, the Children’s Investment Fund Foundation (CIFF), and British International Investment (BII).

Discussions during the two-day conference are expected to focus on strengthening international collaboration to address urgent global challenges, including climate change, economic instability, humanitarian crises, global health threats, and violence against women and girls.

Freeland’s participation comes just days after assuming duties as Junior Minister in the Ministry of Tourism following the recent General Election and subsequent Cabinet appointments.

His attendance at the international forum is expected to provide Antigua and Barbuda with an opportunity to deepen global partnerships, advance discussions on sustainable development, and explore investment and cooperation opportunities that can benefit the country and the wider Caribbean region.

This story was first published by Antigua News on : antigua.news/2026/05/17/minister-of-state-freeland-heads-to-london-for-international-development-forum. © 2026 Antigua News. Republication without permission is not allowed.

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Comments (7)

  • Juju Bee May 17, 2026, 7:29 PM

    I’m still confused as to why it’s him representing the PM if it’s not tourism related
    Reply
  • My MP May 17, 2026, 7:58 PM

    I am happy to see that Freeland hit the ground running. Happy he is getting a chance to rep PM. Good stuff..
    Reply
  • Strong supporter May 17, 2026, 8:00 PM

    Way to go Freeland. Lbour party is all inclusive. No matter what you did or who you support there is room at the table for everyone.
    Reply
  • Leanna May 17, 2026, 8:01 PM

    Freeland I love this for you. Repping PM is no small task. Gaston is a world speaker and a workd leader so you have some big shoes to fill
    Reply
  • Concerned Antiguan May 17, 2026, 10:43 PM

    Freeland make us proud
    Reply
  • Glen May 18, 2026, 2:14 PM

    Congratulations. Just took office and being given major assignments
    Reply
  • Mrs Winter May 18, 2026, 2:45 PM

    Safe Journey Bossman!
    Reply

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