“Good Things Will Come Out of CHOGM,” Commonwealth Secretary-General Assures

Commonwealth Secretary-General Hon. Shirley Botchwey has expressed confidence that “good things will come out of” the Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting (CHOGM), as Antigua and Barbuda prepares to host the gathering from November 1 to 4.

Speaking to State Media shortly after her arrival at V.C. Bird International Airport on Thursday, Botchwey thanked the Government for hosting the conference and praised the hospitality of the people of Antigua and Barbuda.

“I know Antiguans and Barbudans are very hospitable people, and so many of us are descending on this city. I know good things will come out of it,” she said.

The Secretary-General is among more than 5,000 overseas visitors expected to arrive on the island for the conference, bringing together Commonwealth leaders, government officials and other participants.

Antigua and Barbuda will become the smallest member of the 56-nation Commonwealth ever to host the biennial meeting, placing the twin-island state at the centre of discussions on the grouping’s shared priorities.

CHOGM provides an opportunity for leaders to discuss common challenges, strengthen cooperation and agree on collective action. The gathering also creates space for exchanges involving business leaders, young people, women and civil society.

For Antigua and Barbuda, the meeting offers an international platform to showcase its culture, hospitality and capacity to host major events, while drawing attention to the priorities of small island states.

Botchwey’s message offered an encouraging welcome to the days ahead, with residents, businesses and organisers preparing to receive visitors from across the Commonwealth.