India’s Acting High Commissioner Manoj Kumar has held talks with senior government and security officials in Antigua and Barbuda, with preparations for the Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting (CHOGM) 2026 high on the agenda.

During his visit, Kumar met Minister of Foreign Affairs, Trade and Immigration E.P. Chet Greene; Minister of Tourism, Civil Aviation, Transportation and Investment Charles “Max” Fernandez; and Chief of Defence Staff Brigadier General Telbert Benjamin.

Manoj Kumar (middle) with Minister Max Fernandez (right)

The discussions focused on India’s participation in CHOGM 2026, which Antigua and Barbuda will host in St John’s from November 1 to 4.

Officials reviewed logistical, protocol, transportation and security arrangements for the Indian delegation expected to attend the high-level Commonwealth gathering.

Kumar also discussed assistance India could provide to support Antigua and Barbuda’s successful hosting of the meeting. The talks were described as reflecting India’s commitment to supporting the twin-island nation as it prepares for the major international event.

During his meeting with Brigadier General Benjamin, the acting high commissioner explored opportunities to deepen defence and security cooperation between the two countries.

The proposed areas of collaboration include capacity-building, professional training and increased engagement between the countries’ institutions.

India has already provided training opportunities to Antigua and Barbuda through its Indian Technical and Economic Cooperation programme, commonly known as ITEC.

India’s Acting High Commissioner Manoj Kumar discussed preparations for the 2026 Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting (CHOGM) with Minister Chet Greene and other senior officials in Antigua and Barbuda

The meetings also allowed both sides to review their wider bilateral relationship and identify opportunities for greater cooperation in tourism, trade, development, training and people-to-people exchanges.

India has reaffirmed that it values its longstanding friendship with Antigua and Barbuda and remains committed to working closely with the Government ahead of CHOGM. It also intends to strengthen the broader partnership between the two countries.

As part of his visit, Kumar met members of the Indian community and diaspora living in Antigua and Barbuda.

The interaction allowed residents to share their experiences and concerns, including difficulties accessing consular services because of distance constraints.

The Indian Mission said it remains committed to strengthening its engagement with the community and improving the accessibility and responsiveness of its consular services.