U.S. Diplomat Pays Emotional Tribute to Sir Aziz Hadeed During America250 Celebration in Antigua

​

The United States Embassy’s celebration of America’s 250th anniversary in Antigua and Barbuda took on a poignant tone this week as U.S. Chargé d’Affaires Karin Sullivan opened the event by paying tribute to the late businessman and philanthropist, Sir Aziz Faraz Hadeed.

The celebration, held at The Hut at Little Jumby, brought together Prime Minister the Rt. Hon. Gaston Browne, senior government officials, members of the diplomatic corps, business leaders and friends of the United States. Among those in attendance were Chairman of Antigua Power Company (APC), Francis Hadeed, and other members of the Hadeed family, along with several representatives of the local business community.

Before beginning the evening’s commemorative programme, Sullivan reflected on Sir Aziz’s extraordinary contributions to national development and the close relationship he shared with the United States Embassy.

“Before we begin tonight’s celebration, I would like to acknowledge the recent passing of Sir Aziz Faraz Hadeed. His contributions to Antigua and Barbuda’s business, community, civic life and national development left a lasting mark on this nation. Sir Aziz was a longtime friend of the U.S.

Embassy and someone who understood the importance of partnership, community and public service. He is deeply missed by many across Antigua and Barbuda and beyond,” Sullivan said.

Her remarks underscored the profound respect Sir Aziz commanded not only in Antigua and Barbuda but also among international partners who worked closely with him throughout his distinguished career.

Sullivan later highlighted the enduring relationship between the United States and Antigua and Barbuda, describing it as a partnership grounded in shared values and practical cooperation. She pointed to ongoing collaboration in border security, maritime safety, energy resilience, transnational crime prevention and economic development as examples of the strong and evolving ties between the two countries.

Particular attention was given to energy cooperation, with Sullivan identifying the Liquefied Natural Gas (LNG) project at Crabbs Peninsula as one of the most significant examples of growing commercial engagement between Antigua and Barbuda and the United States.

The LNG terminal is being developed through Caribbean LNG, a joint venture between Antigua Power Company (APC), part of the Hadeed Group, and U.S.-based Eagle LNG. The project is expected to strengthen Antigua and Barbuda’s long-term energy security while positioning the country as a future supplier of cleaner energy solutions throughout the Eastern Caribbean.

The tribute to Sir Aziz served as a fitting reminder of the lasting impact of a man whose vision, leadership and commitment to public service helped shape modern Antigua and Barbuda and foster meaningful partnerships beyond its shores.