Antigua and Barbuda’s Ambassador H.E. Dwight C.R. Gardiner has successfully concluded his one-year tenure as President of the 30th Session of the Assembly of the International Seabed Authority (ISA), earning widespread praise for his leadership during a pivotal period for global ocean governance.

The conclusion of Ambassador Gardiner’s presidency was marked during the ISA’s Assembly in Kingston, Jamaica, where Member States and international officials paid tribute to his commitment, diplomacy and ability to build consensus among nations.

Gardiner’s election to lead the Assembly was viewed as a significant achievement for Antigua and Barbuda, the wider Caribbean and Small Island Developing States (SIDS), highlighting the region’s growing influence in shaping international policies on the sustainable management of the world’s oceans.

Throughout his tenure, Gardiner presided over the ISA’s highest decision-making body, guiding deliberations on critical issues surrounding the governance of the international seabed. His leadership was credited with fostering constructive dialogue while ensuring discussions remained transparent, inclusive and rooted in the principles of the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea.

For Antigua and Barbuda and other island nations, the work of the International Seabed Authority is especially significant. The organization is responsible for regulating mineral-related activities in the international seabed area while ensuring that these resources are managed for the benefit of humanity and that the marine environment is protected.

During the handover ceremony, the ISA Secretary-General praised Gardiner’s stewardship of the Assembly.

“President Gardiner has led the Assembly with integrity, wisdom and unwavering dedication,” the Secretary-General said. “His steady leadership, thoughtful guidance and commitment to fostering mutual understanding among Member States have strengthened the work of the Assembly and the Authority as a whole.”

The Secretary-General also noted that his presidency showcased the valuable contribution Small Island Developing States continue to make in global ocean governance.

The Secretary-General of the International Maritime Organization (IMO) also commended Gardiner’s commitment to multilateral cooperation and his efforts to strengthen international dialogue on ocean affairs.

Delegations representing every regional group within the Authority echoed those sentiments, applauding his patience, diplomacy and ability to guide complex negotiations while ensuring every Member State had an opportunity to contribute meaningfully.

Reflecting on the completion of his term, Gardiner thanked Member States, the ISA Secretariat and fellow Bureau members for their confidence and collaboration throughout the past year.

His presidency now passes to H.E. Oliver Whitehead of the Kingdom of the Netherlands, who will serve as President of the 31st Session after previously holding the position of Vice-President during the 30th Session.

Beyond his role at the ISA, Ambassador Gardiner serves as Antigua and Barbuda’s Permanent Representative to the International Maritime Organization. He is also leading the country’s campaign to secure election to Category C of the IMO Council in December 2027, an effort aimed at strengthening Antigua and Barbuda’s role in international maritime affairs and advancing the interests of Small Island Developing States as they confront increasing threats to ocean sustainability.